The writings of John Greenleaf Whittier, Volume 4.
John Greenleaf Whittier, Ed.

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[287] O City sitting by the Sea!
     How proud the day that dawned on thee,
When the new era, long desired, began,
     And, in its need, the hour had found the man!

One thought the cannon salvos spoke,
     The resonant bell-tower's vibrant stroke,
The voiceful streets, the plaudit-echoing halls,
     And prayer and hymn borne heavenward from St.Paul's!

How felt the land in every part
     The strong throb of a nation's heart,
As its great leader gave, with reverent awe,
     His pledge to Union, Liberty, and Law!

That pledge the heavens above him heard,
     That vow the sleep of centuries stirred;
In world-wide wonder listening peoples bent
     Their gaze on Freedom's great experiment.

Could it succeed? Of honor sold
     And hopes deceived all history told.
Above the wrecks that strewed the mournful past,
     Was the long dream of ages true at last?

Thank God! the people's choice was just,
     The one man equal to his trust,
Wise beyond lore, and without weakness good,
     Calm in the strength of flawless rectitude!

His rule of justice, order, peace,
     Made possible the world's release;