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1770–1850

SONNET.

William Wordsworth

High deeds, O Germans, are to come from you! Thus in your Books the record shall be found, “A Watchword was pronounced, a potent sound, ARMINIUS!— all the people quaked like dew

Stirr'd by the breeze — they rose, a Nation, true, True to itself — the mighty Germany, She of the Danube and the Northern sea, She rose,— and off at once the yoke she threw.

All power was given her in the dreadful trance — Those new-born Kings she wither'd like a flame.” — Woe to them all! but heaviest woe and shame To that Bavarian, who did first advance

His banner in accursed league with France, First open Traitor to her sacred name!

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SONNET. · William Wordsworth · Poetry Cove