Liberty: Liberty

Liberty

A FRAGMENT.
[Fragment of verse were numerous, Dr. Currie said, among the loose
papers of the poet. These lines formed the commencement of an ode
commemorating the achievement of liberty for America under the
directing genius of Washington and Franklin.]

    Thee, Caledonia, thy wild heaths among,
    Thee, fam'd for martial deed and sacred song,
      To thee I turn with swimming eyes;
    Where is that soul of freedom fled?
    Immingled with the mighty dead!
      Beneath the hallow'd turf where Wallace lies!
    Hear it not, Wallace, in thy bed of death!
      Ye babbling winds, in silence sweep;
      Disturb not ye the hero's sleep,
    Nor give the coward secret breath.
      Is this the power in freedom's war,
      That wont to bid the battle rage?
    Behold that eye which shot immortal hate,
      Crushing the despot's proudest bearing!

Back to chapter list of: Liberty