America Speaks

“For what avail or plough, or sail, Or land, or life, if freedom fail?” We have been sleeping—dreaming. Now, Thank God! we are awake! Awake, and ready with a will The nobler part to take! No more shall a pretended Peace Our souls from duty several We dedicate our lives to God And Liberty—forever! We, who have looked with anguished eyes On things no eye should see, Beholding all that may be wrought By ruthless Tyranny, Join hands with you, devoted Lands A liberated Nation That wills to share your sacrifice, That knows your exaltation! A lofty voice has spoken words That bring the world relief; Our Land has joined the league of Right, Led onward by her Chief— Her Chief who large has writ his name With Lincoln’s in the story Of that dear land which still may call The flag she loves, “Old Glory!”