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1849–1916

IV

James Whitcomb Riley

‘ Tis not a vision only — we who pay But the poor tribute of our praises here Are equal sharers in the guerdon they Purchased at price so dear.

The angel, Peace, o'er all uplifts her hand, Waving the olive, and with heavenly eyes Shedding a light of love o'er sea and land As sunshine from the skies —

Her figure pedestalled on Freedom's soil — Her sandals kissed with seas of golden grain — Queen of a realm of joy-requited toil That glories in her reign.

O blessed land of labor and reward! O gracious Ruler, let Thy reign endure; In pruning-hook and ploughshare beat the sword, And reap the harvest sure!

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IV · James Whitcomb Riley · Poetry Cove