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1809–1894

UNION AND LIBERTY

Oliver Wendell Holmes

FLAG of the heroes who left us their glory, Borne through their battle-fields’ thunder and flame, Blazoned in song and illumined in story, Wave o'er us all who inherit their fame!

Light of our firmament, guide of our Nation, Pride of her children, and honored afar, Let the wide beams of thy full constellation Scatter each cloud that would darken a star

Up with our banner bright, etc. Empire unsceptred! what foe shall assail thee, Bearing the standard of Liberty's van? Think not the God of thy fathers shall fail thee,

Striving with men for the birthright of man! Up with our banner bright, etc. Yet if, by madness and treachery blighted, Dawns the dark hour when the sword thou must draw,

Then with the arms of thy millions united, Smite the bold traitors to Freedom and Law! Up with our banner bright, etc.

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UNION AND LIBERTY · Oliver Wendell Holmes · Poetry Cove