5°^ 5> ^.^ -^Is* A.^ '^ v" V '^^ 0^ VV CMAMILIES CfisJRMOILILgOIF 'C.AMIKO]L]LTO:2Tc SEFEXVCB '^^'y^" BALTIMORE, DEATH OF GE^TERAIi ROSS* BY RICHARD ^EMMONS, M. D. FaBBOsriAD. — Cawto xxxix. — Thibb edition. WASHINGTON: rUBIISHED BY WILLIAM BHliC&^r^^/^ 1831. ■t/ r^ DEDICATION. £.^* To Charies Carroxl of Cabrollton: 1 embrace with eagerness, the opportunity thus afforded, to hail the last star that burns in the galaxy of patriots, whose bril- liant scintillations have shed a redeeming light upon the world! Your bosom was laid bare to the spear of tyranny, but the shield of your virtue shivered it in the dust. The imperishable laurel is thine! The whole nation rise up to do thee reverence! How must your aged heart burn like a lamp of divine incense, when you contemplate the consummation of your labors' Enviable man! Thou art, as it v/ere, the last living link in the chain that tmites the past with the present — the pi-esent with the future: Carroll of America — Lafayette of France — Schrzynecki of im- mortalized Poland! A triumvirate, combining Vu-tue — Patriot- ism — Liberty ! The curtain of inscrutable destiny seems to have been purposely drawn aside, that you miglit behola, in reality ^ the fcflorious anticipations of the future! Yet soon must the cl^ariot of fire descend — Thy translation is at hand! Like Elishas, we bow before thee, waiting to receive the mantle of thy blessing! Please to accept of this dedication, as testimonial of that profound feeling which proceeds from a heart, sensible of an obligation of the highest gratitude — the emancipation of' my •ountry from the thraldom of the oppressor. : RICHARD EMMONS. WASHINfiTOir CiTT, iVW. 1,;1&81. CARHOZ.I. or CARAOLLTOiri AN IMPROMPTU. On Jiearing of his being attacked with dangerous illness^^ Great CrosHng, Ky. September 6th, 182r. He is the last — the last of those Who set their names to Freedom's Seal — Who from pride's summit hurl'd their foes, And made the stubborn monarch kneel. Spare him, ye Powers! our guide, our chart- A nation clasps him to her breastj % His life is precious to the heart — / Bid health return and make us bless'd.! He is the last — the only one ! O! how resign him to the grave'. Fled from our arms, hath Jefferson- Hi m for his anxious country save ! A few brief days are all we ask, (If such with Heaven is the decree,) O! may he yield his earthly task Upon the nation's Jubilee! Then will our grief but reach the soul, To make it soft as bliss in tears — The day, our sorrows will;ppntrol. To hail him as he mounts the spheres ! The last is he ! — he is the last! Say not his sands of life are run — His virtues, his example, past, Carroll the sage of Carrollton !• ARGUMENT. Cochrane arrives at the mouth of the Patapsco. Strieker give* battle to the invaders. An episode. Defence of Fort Mac Henry. The British defeated. The scene is generally below Baltimore, and at F©rt Mac Henrj. The time is five days. [Copy right secured a«cordrng to law.]' DEPEIVCE .M.mwdm®mm^ While these events were passing. Cochrane set His compass from Bermuda with his fleet, Whitening the waves; his floating bulwarks stow'd With arms — to bend the land to servitude; Ross in command — Brooks, Rainej, Thornton plac'd, With potent names that never were disgrac'd, When sanguine war and pallid death embrac'd. Soon their deep keels oppress the Chesapeake, Intent the wealth of Baltimore to seek; And then apply the torch with recklessness, 19 And all the temples of the arts deface. Such hate of freedom rankled in their breast, Their hearts were ripe its progress to arrest— E^en to effect it should their hands be stain'd With damning crimes that hell itself profan'd. Their anchors they at the Patapsco lock'd As bj the waves the evening clouds were mock'd. Warren accepted of the same fair breeze, That wafted Cochrane from the tropic seas, Freighted with Packenham — a countless host S# T* sack Orleans and Vandalize the coast. .1% © DEFENCE OP BALTIMORE* While Cockburn rested at his moorings fast, With bloody banner gtreaming from his mast, Waiting for Cochrane from the southern wave To sink the whole in desolation's grave — The dark imbrewing storm the City scann'd. And rose to guard their altars from the brand— Their mothers, virgins, tender infants, wives- Blessings for which the fallen world survives. Along the heights, stretching from north to east, 3@ Ramparts thej raise th' invasion to arrest^ The only pass that offers to the foe By land to enter and the town subdue. The trust to Smith is given, who toils had seem, Trying the soul — with Washington and Greene. At Mifflin Fort refulgently he stood, A bright example to his brotherhood — Lee, Varnum. Fleury, Russell Treat and Thayer, Resolv'd to pour their life's rich fountains there. Six days involv'd in flaming pestilence, 40 The royals strove t' expel ti)e patriots hence. At length each vestige of the fortress rent, Lo ! Washington commanded to relent Their desperate valour — useful now no more, Except to die and sanctify the shore — But not till Smith was brui^'d for Freedom's sake-*- A glorious theme, some future bard to wake, Inspir'd of heaven, to sing the lofty praise Of those who shed their blood in ancient days, And wrenc^'d t!ie sceptre from oppro>,>i;)n's hand, 50 That strove unhallow'd to enslave the laud. DEFENCE OP BALTIMORE. ' T The City him salute-l when he rose To gird his arms the spoilers to oppose. They gazM upon his scars of holy time, And felt the God of Battles had sublime. Lengthened the number of his years to save Their dearest all from darkness and the grave. Strieker hails next, whose locks resemble snow— ^ Oft had he battled in the days of wo With Morgan, Howard — others great and good, 60 To uhom is due a nation's gratitude. Those of the city to his voice give ear, And bow with reverence to his character. The listed troops and volunteers of Penn, Are Winder's — while Virginia's sorted men, Douglas, obey — their free, adopted will. And Sin«;leton — their high resolve to fill. Rodgers, whose energies the soul excite, Wi Firm the defenders in Mac Henry stand Buried sublime in silence to behold The war of Cockburn terrible unfold-— Fix'd they remain like monumental oaks, With roots hard grappled to the bolted rocks: Artillery marshall'd in the clouds of heaven, To rend the oaks with pointed blaze is driven; The mountain plants unyielding brave its wrath, 1020 Their heads majestic in a fiery bath: So the Fredonians daringly maintain An eye unwinking at the burning main. The voice of Armistead flows: "This, Mzs the hour To test the soul — the strength of mental power. When man is battling to high frenzy wrought, The funeral bier is driven from his thought| 40 DEFENCE OF BALTIMORE. But when serene he stands and smiles at death, It proves him more than wortliy of the wreath, Which fame delights to place upon the brow lOSO Of him whose breast is ofier'd to the foe! " Bejond the measure of our reach are thej, Hence, vain our flash, should we the globes assay. Soon may our caution near them on the tide— - L^pw-ard I seem on seraph's wing to ride To see you stand like pillars on the heath, When loud the thunder speaks with lightning breath. Ah, think — think how honourable to die! Remember'd ever with a tearful eye — Cherish'd, embalm'd till gratitude shall fail, 1040 Or over virtue, infamy prevail — " He scarce had nnish'd when a bomb-globe burst Near a charg'd engine — shiver'd it to dust; Clagget and Clemm sad perish by the blow. For whom is shed the briny drops of wo: - Thus on the borders of Patapsco's flood, Two lofty elms in primal grandeur stood. The silver stream their thirsty roots supplied With living waters in its downward glide. Their sweet buds open'd in the infant spring, 1050 When blithe the swallow twitter'd on the wing. New rob'd in loveliness they wav'd serene, The clouds alluring with their foilage green. The sun's pure gold, when first he gave the day, Was rich reflected from their leaves at play — Thus cloth'd in beauty — lo! a sudden flash Leap'd from a storm in heaven I — with whelming crash, DEFENCE OF BALTIMORE. 41 Bow'd were their heads to earth ! Thus fell the brave, And sunk with all their honours in the grave. 1060 Fragment of shell smote Russel on the heel— The keen sharp anguish caus'd his sight to reelj And made his bosom like damp marble feel. The bone was laid all naked to the eye, Which reach'd the heart and mov'd its sympathy. Soon was a bandage skilfully applied — Armistead advis'd him, but he stern denied To leave his post, — he stood his gun to prove, Should Cockburn's navy in its distance movej And by example to inspire his band, 1070 To fall like martyrs, or like patriots stand. Th' incendiary thinking his report At length had bent the vigour of the fort, A token set, the navy to unmoor — They weigh — sail, — slacken, — anchor near the shore! The heroes watch'd their movements with a chill- Expectance shivering — a celestial thrill! Armistead with utterance press'd: "See! mark— be- hold. Their lossen'd sheets before the breeze unfold! No whisper stir — breathless — be hush'd — be calm, 1080 Or they perhaps may curdle with alarm! They think, perchance, they 've buried us with dread. But soon we 'II show the rising of the dead! 4* 42 DEFENCE OF BALTIMORE. " They come— they anchor; — touch ! — level — n» more!" The brass like giants in their anger roar. The flames flash upward like volcanic fires— The fleet creens on the sea! — blood flows, and man ex- pires: Thus was Vesuvius mufiled for a time, Accumulating power t' roll sublime Thunder to heave the universe. At length, 1090 Its prison'd earthquakes rose with deafening strength, Wielding on high the elements in mirth, While sulphurous rivers pour'd destruction forth: Scarce were the hills w^ith less commotion jarr'd,^ When the live match the cannonry unbarr'd. * -^ ■# 3f •■^5 The fleet half broken to their place retire, And shower the fortress with huge balls of fire. A sad forebodetnent hovers o'er the plain — The swollen clouds descend in torrent rain. Impervious night seals up the scroll of heaven, 1100 Save the red rockets at Mac Henry driven 5 The trains careering as they upward sweep, Are dire reflected in the dark black deep, Malignant, fearful like the comet's blaze, Fixing the eye of mortals with amaze. The trembling fair ones all — their all forsake, Whilst the big mortars the deep ocean shake. A fate uncertain magnifies the vast, And gives each peal an earthquake-swallowing blast DEFHNOE OF BALTIMORE. 43 Hark! whence this terrible, tremendous sound? The heavens seem falling to the delug'd ground I 1110 And is the foe at hand ? — Mac Henry lost ? Or is the rampart into ruins toss'd ? Dreadful combustion glares upon the sight, Tinging the city with a doubtful light, Hesembling that which glimmers from the moon, "When struggling in eclipse while ghosts commune-— Touching the forehead with a dubious gleam, Like ghastly spectres of a madman's dream. Th' affrighted virgins with distraction fly, Their shrieks ascending to the suffering sky. 11£0 They rend their bosoms to the darkness bare, And scatter to the wind their loosen'd hair. The floods unpitying drench their tender limbs — The whole creation with the deluge swims ! At length to Smith the troublous scene was known, Which made black midnight startle from her throne; He sent for Howard, stooping with his age, And bade him forth their terrors to assuage. The gray-hair'd warrior, friend to Washington And Morgan, reach'd the city, and begun i 1150 ''Cast back, my children, these appalling fears! Calm, calm this anguish — stay these scalding tears. Th' invaders strove to violate the shore. Where Webster, Newcomb stand, — but floods of gore Compell'd them to retire ! — This wildness calm— Your brothers guard you from off'ensive harm. '* Yon fiery rockets wheeling through the sky^ Show the sublime without mortality j 44 DEFENCE OP BALTIMORE. Though to the shrinking siuht, i si ms ^hat death At every blast would burn us with li, breath, 1140 Yet in Mac Henry, only four with fame Have tied to heaven upon the cii cling flame ! " Soon must they seek their satVty on the main— My children, shelter, shelter from the rain! No Vandal torch will e'er the city burn-— The High Supreme defends us ! — To your homes re- turn!" As when the polar storms tempestuous driven, Dash chafing billows foaming up to heaven- Grinding to powder'd dust the granite shores, Whdst with distress the suffering welkin roars. 1150 At length outspent the howling of the North, The tempest dies! — the Sou*li comes gliding forth. Borne on the chariot of a silver breeze, And smooths the surface of the ruffled seas: So hush'd the tumults of the tender breast, When Howard gave the promise of their rest. Cochrane perceiving his attempts were vain. Bounded to Brook, anil thus with huriying pain: *' England's detence ! Alas, we 've come too late, With lighted torch, the town to demonstrate; 1160 ? Hence vNith the army to the navy sail, Wliilst every star is cover'd with a veil. Cockburn is order'd to inflame the air, To keep engag'd the soil-defenders there." Brook felt his langua;i,e true, — and, at the word, Wheel'd, — made the beach, — embark 'd bis troops on board, 3JEFENCE OF BALTIMORE. 45 While Cockburn shook the sphere ; — at early beam, He left Mac Henry — floated down the stream. Soon were the clouds dissolv'd, — the mantling red Hover'd with beauty round the mountain's head. 1170 The plains slow open'd, and reveaPd to light— The foe departed with the shades of night ! A holy transport swells from tongue to tongue- Tears of warm rapture gush from old and young; Wives, husbands, mothers, sisters, brothers press^ Each to his bosom lost in happiness! ADDRESS TO THE MOOI^T. A drapery of mist, the Queen of night Drew round her form, reverting from the sightj But now, not hearing of the battle loud, Slow she disrobes her bosom from the cloud. Alas! what horror doth her light reveal — The wasted gore runs trickling down the hill: Death pil'd on death, and broken sword-steels red, And the pale faces of the warriors dead. Horse on his rider bleeding; — skull bones bare Cast back the moonbeams with a hideous glare, Like that reflected from a spectre's cheek, Troubling the tombs the rotten dust to seek. The silver bosom'd daughter of the spheres, Turns from the scene and veils herself in tears. Loveliest of heaven ! dnth sorrow dim thine eye For human grief, whilst travelling through the sky P Ah I yes, — ^I mark affliction on thy brow, And tear-drops coursing down thy cheeks of snow. O thou hast touch'd that something in my breast, That makes me happy even when distress'd! For man, alas! there's ample cause to mourn— He falls to dust — ah, never to return! Though now thy brightness wanes upon decline, Yet soon thy horns shall fill and glorious shinej Not so with man — a flower in bloom to-day, To-morrow faded — mouldering into clay! And is the grave the all — the last of man— His strength but weakness and his life a span? Fair Mourner! tell thy bended suppliant here. If man exist beyond thy lovely sphere? If but to feed the grave-yard worms be all For which he buffets on this tossing ball — O then more close fold up thy thickening cloud — * Stain it to blackness like the cof&n shroud ! ADDRESS TO THE MOON, 47 But if the soul beatitude shall find, Biess'd with the rapt fruition of the mindt Dismuffle from thy veil — pour down thj rays, And let me ravish'd on thy beauty gaze! * * * * * Worship the si^n! — the clouds disparted fly! She looks new burnish'd from the Deity! Gaze, O ye mortals ! bend your eye to heaven- Behold translation in the symbol given ! Methinks, to greet thy presence, bridal Queen! Touching their harps, are starry cherubs seen! The Muse feels soaring on Elijah's fire! Propitious omen ! — man shall not expire ! He like thyself a transient season dies To shine eternal in the vital skies ! ■— »HS©i IIVDEPENDENCE. I«et deafeniny: cannon peal to hpaven— • Their kindled thunders jar the earlh — Lo, this the day to glory given — The day that hail'd a Nation's birth ! Let the full soul from south to north. Join to proclaim the wondrous day — Let shouting millions on the Fourth, Shrill to the heavens the news convey! The theme demands creation's tongue To bear its swelling chorus high — The anthemjirst Columbia sung, And shall be heard till Time shall die ! As blackening whirlwinds edg'd with fire, Strike terror to the guilty name; So tyrants one by one expire, Consum'd by Freedom's hallow'd flame! France in her giant strength sprang fortfc Arm'd with a spear and truth's bright shield^ And, wnile she sang her glorious birth, Wav'd the tri-banner o'er the field! 48 INDEPENDENCE. Beneath its folds exalted stands, On honor's loftiest parapet, He, who the gazing world commands— Our great, our good, our own Fayette ! A captive long in durance bound, England majestic feels her might; Her chains tall sunder'd to the ground- Indignant, she demands her right ! Hail ! Albion ! hail ! the charm is broke, That long hath chilPd thy heart with fear; Loos'd is thy neck from priesthood's yokc- Pois'd in thy hand is Freedom's spear! See, Kosciusko's Nation rise — A phoenix from his ashes wakes! Its blazing wings illume the skies — The reeking throne of Russia shakes! Again shall fetters bind her ? — No ! A moment she may pause from strife To strike more sure th' avenging blow— A resurrection — death to life! Th' impatient goblets, charge with wine- Let every eye invoke the sphere; Kneel — pledge the sages — names divine ! And hail them with enraptur'd tear! We this proud day to them decree. And swear with an uplifted hand, That we '11 maintain their legacy, Or -prinkle with our blood the land! Washington City, July 4thf 1831. FREDONIAD CANTO III. Invocation — Description of the celestial regions — The convention of the Immortals at the bower of Heaven — their speeches still farther elucidate the causes of the war. The scene is laid in heaven. The time is one day. Long hath my fancy, on the wing of death, Pursu'd her darksome way through hell beneath, — Where, cramp'd with horror, frequent have I stood Breathless, to mark the scenes of pain and blood ; But now escap'd the regions of despair, I feel the spirit of the quickening air To urge me upward with elastic spring. Beyond the circle of the comet's wing. Thou, who sustain'st the poet as he climbs, And the rough passion of his soul sublimes — 'JO Giv'st him to walk through nature's boundless road, To search the place of Deity's abode — Thou, Muse of Poesy! — O come thou near, And tune my harp for the celestial sphere ; Distil thy dew upon my bosom now — Inspire my thoughts with inspiration's glow — With light effulgent, circumfuse my brow! Direct my compass from this downward earth To where the mind receiy'd its wonderous birth. PREDONIAD. CANTO III. Give me the touch that none but angels feel — 20 Elysian glories to my soul reveal ! Strengthen — O guide me in my course on high, And ope the gate of heaven expansive to mine eye! What strange emotions startle through my soul I Beyond my sight, earth backward seems to roll ! Before my gaze th' inspiring Genius stands — She leads the way of heaven with holy hands! Her touch divine improves my visual ray — I see, I feel, I breathe immortal day! Beyond the burning radiance of the sun — 30 Above where. stars in dancing circles run; Careering thence, where fire-wrapp'd angels sing, Touching the gold of the melodious string — Distance immense, immeasurably high. Heaven's gate unfolds a present Deity ! Scenes drawn with beauty's pencil fill the sight, Where shades in nice gradation touch the light: Rivers of nectar in abundance flow. Winding the hills to reach the lake below, — Replenishing with life the longing roots 40 Of plants that propagate ambrosial fruits, And gums more choice than those that incense made, When Aaron prostrate for the people prayed. Perennial vallies open on the view. Where rich variety is ever new. In robes of emerald is the landscape dress'd — Sweets of elixirty th' afrv3ctions' feast. Flowers new with life variegate the scene — Like gems that deck the the brow of night serene: FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Snow-drops, and daffodils, and lotus fair — 50 Carnations, jonquils, crocus, tulips, rare — The lofty blooms and those that love the ground, Pour their sweet breaths deliciously around. Th' ethereal soil in which they smihng grow. Refines their tints above what earth can know. The more the curious eye their structure views. They through the soul more loveliness infuse; Never they languish, but improving live, Beyond what man of beauty can conceive. On zephyr'd hills exuberant groves extend, 60 Down which the streams in glad meanderings bend • Here proudly waves the victor laurel round. With which the temples of the just are crown'd; Trees of rich blossom aromatic rise, Spreading their flower-deck'd bosoms to the skies. The elm majestic rears its head on high, Near which the slender aspen trembles by. Lambs in the vallies innocent are seen. The honied flowrets cropping o'er the green. Some graze beside the lions prone in sleep, 70 Others in sportive gambols round them leap; Pleas'd wake the lions and enjoy the play. Crouch in the grass, and rampant start away. With dignity the tiger steps the lawn, Or in his humour dandles with the fawn. The kid's wild frolic swells the various bliss — Young life and beauty in embraces kiss. In this rich paradise where pleasure reigns, Birds of rare cadence chant their happy strains- The shrill-tongu'd lark exulting as he flies, 80 With early song salutes the opening skies. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. The gold canary never checks his notes — Shrill through the air his breath melodious floats. The speaking mocking-birds their hymns recite, And the sweet sparrow twitters with delight. The linnet, thrush, and nightingale, in turn, Make the wide heavens with glowing music burn. At times, one lonely sings his mellowed song. The others listening to his warbling tongue — When, lo, an impulse striking on the whole, 90 Their strains seraphic melody the soul. A lake expands its bosom on the right, (Seen from th' empyreal bower — majestic height,) Pure in transparency as heaven-wash'd light. Nothing to match its beauties can compare — The touch, creative, stamp'd perfection there. Swans in their spotless robes adorn its breast, Whose silver shades beneath their bosoms rest. With glsfdness now they row along the lake — Their moving shadows into fragments break. 100 The proud flamingo follows on the stream. Rich like an image in a rapturous dream; Its crimson plumage dazzles like a flame, Burning in worship to th' eternal name. The happy swimmers mark the pearls that shine, And diamond shores of radiancy divine — The firmament, reflected from below. With all the wonderous scenes that round about it glow. Here souls, translated, wash their stains away. When freed from earth they burst their prisoning clay; 1 10 With holy thirstings large they drink the wave — Youth springs immortal from the virtuous gravel FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Refin'd, enfranchis'd from the dross of earth, In sacred form they pour their homage forth. Clad in the vestures of their God they stand, With hallow'd censers burning in their hand, Pure clouds of grateful incense curl on high, To visit vi^hich live rainbows leave the sky ; While the bless'd multitudes on bended knee, In holy thought adore the Deity. 120 Deep-pouring from the lake a river springs, In whose bright waters angels dip their wings. The liquid silver winds through field and grove — 'Tween parted hills, where beauty wakens love. Its marble channel deck'd with emerald glows, As smooth the lapsing wave like falling music flows. Its sloping banks with dewy moss are crown'd, Such as draws life from heaven's nectareous ground. Soft as the web that forms the silkworm's nest, Or down that blossoms on the cygnet's breast. 130 Each colour kissing each harmonious blends. Like rain-bow arch that round creation bends. Beyond the moss, flourish for ever green, Trees where the bird of paradise is seen. The fruits, reflected in the wave below. Seem to the eye invertedly to grow, And heaven's transparencies divinely show. Myriads of gold and silver fishes play 'Neath the cool shades, or in the dazzling ray. With nimble fin they rapid dart along — 140 At times, like tiny troops — a beauteous throng, Marshall'd they move, — and now in files they reach- Now, shoal together round the diamond beach. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. They leap and taste the air — then, diving, swim, — And then, quick wheehng, o'er the surface skim, Rippling the unchafd waters as they pass — Shivering the stream — a broken flood of glass; Birds, trees and fruits, the heavens around that glow, Like shatter'd fragments in the mirror flow. On these bless'd fields translated spirits move, 160 Wrapp'd in th' adoring ecstasy of love; Here reign immeasurable joys for ever more — Immense, from sea to sea — from shore to shore* High o'er this blissful heaven another rolls. Where seraphs dwell and walk the shining poles, Or float on rapture circumfus'd in light, Bordering the Deity — stupendous height! Respiring large, his breathings exquisitel At times, they ride in chariots wing'd with flame, Through fields of space — creation's boundless frame! 160 At times, in holy rings their hands unite, And virtuous names to Deity recite ; Then, in conclusion, swell the strain so high, The anthem echoes through immensity. Beyond this second heaven — the seraph's clime, Revolves the third, sublime above sublime; Here dwells the Deity unseen, unknown — A unit, multitude — and yet alone, — The centre point — the circle of the whole — The former of a mite — the breather of the soul! 170 FREDOISIAD. CANTO III. His outward skirts are curtain'd in a blaze Of gold, made fire, blinding the worship gaze Of angels crown'd with tires, unless they fling Before the solid brilliancy their wing. Shading the dazzling dark — e'en then the shine, Bows them with reverence to the Power Divine! So bright th' effulgence of th' empyreal beam, A world of suns would midnight darkness seem. Thus orb'd in fire, he circles nature round, Breathing to all vitality profound. When in the Elysium west, he shades his view, He lines the vault with stars created new, Which round the universe their paths pursue, — While bands of angels, on the wings of light, Repeat soft music to the ear of night. Zon'd in effulgence, the Supreme appears — Forth at his smile, day quickens round the spheres. The dread magnificence mysterious given. Bends into worship all the host of heaven. The open-bosom'd flowers baptiz'd with dew, Breathe a waste wilderness of odours new. The humming-bird, inviting, tfirill'd with bliss» Them, to salute w-ith love-delighting kiss. A cloud of gorgeous fashion in the east, Supports an angel-troop, of whom, the least. Not the whole earth would bear comparison. Were all its beauty melted into one. The paintings of the cloud, a God, unfold — With which the topaz, ruby, fire-provM gold — FREDONIAD. CANTO IH. The opal, jacinth, emerald, jasper, fair, 200 Are meanly dull their splendours to compare. Fringes of rainbow light its skirts adorn, Blending the purity of day new-born. Soft as it floats upon the silver air, Tnimageable forms divine appear. Changing exquisite as the cloud in heaven Changes its folds by breathing Zephyrs driven. These cloud-wrapp'd angels of the second clime, At the dread voice of Deity sublime, Convene th' immortals at the floral bower, 210 When great events hang pending on the hour. Lo, now a Seraph from the cloud descries Fredonia at the fount of Paradise; (Fredonia crown'd celestial at her birth, The guardian genius of Columbia's earth.) On vital pinions swift he cleaves his way; His cheek so fair, it shames the blush of day. His plumes transparent in the sunbeams shine, Reflecting far a splendidness divine. As smooth he floating o'er the empyrean sails, 220 Fanning with gentle wing the yielding gales, A golden clarion in his right he bears, ^ Which, when it sounds, his purposes declares. Soft to his kissing lips the trump he plies. And, breathing melody as forth he flies, Touches the soul with nameless ecstasies. " Ye, crown'd with immortahtyl — arise! Fredonia from the earth hath reach'd the skies. At the gemm'd grotto of the heavenly mount, Where flows the stream from the Elysian fount, 230 FEEDONIAD. CANTO III. Pensive she sits. With gratulations now, Greet her return, for heavy is her brow. Various emotions her soft bosom fill — Salute, escort her to the bowery hill; There will the Goddess passing scenes relate — The weal and wo of Freedom's dubious state." He breath'd deliciously such melting strains, They echo'd music through the happy plains. Forth at the sound, in brilliant troops they move With grace, that shows their origin above. 240 From different seats of blessedness they rise, Resplendent virtues dazzling from their eyes — From lawns profuse of flowers, where pleasure dwells; From mossy banks, from grottos, echoing dells; From groves of myrrh, where musing silence strays, And contemplation all hers6lf surveys; From the full river, diamond-bounded lake, Where souls enfranchised hear the anthems break. The sumless numbers moving at the sound. Would the strain'd efforts of the mind confound. 260 As stars unmultiplied in circles dance To hallow'd music on the blue expanse, — As drops of dew the robes of spring adorn, When infant day with fragrant breath is born, — As beams of light reflected from a shower. When three fair rainbows from two mountains tower: In numbers like to this the bless'd appear. And fill with splendour the celestial sphere. Ravish'd in bliss, on buoyancy they tread, Leaving the dew upon the violet's head. 260 FREDONIAD. CANTO III. West of the lake, in this bright world divine, Looms a rich mount, down which gold streamlets shine. A plain extends upon its summit round. Where grace and beauty step th' enchanting ground; Here breathes the bower of heaven with fragrance full, From which the souls, elect, ambrosial flowrets cull. Palm trees in negligence of nature stand — Like stately pillars they enclose the land ; The spiry-creeping vines their brown trunks wed, Whose purple clusters gladdening odours shed. 270 To fill the casual vacancies between. Growths less exalted careless intervene: The nectarine, the olive, lime and fig. Round which the woodbine wreathes its modest sprig. At times the orange spreads its silver leaves, Through which with truant curl the jasmine weaves. The spice-tree flourishes divinely fair, Scattering a cloud of incense through the air. The rose-vine throws a beauty o'er the scene, Its flowers expanding mid the foliage green. 280 Dowp from the lofty palms, in loose array. Festoons depend, where bees their pastime play; And humming-birds, too delicate to light, Sip the aroma lovely to the sight. Four cedars to the north affect the skies, — Two rainbow arches from their summits rise, Caus'd by the dew exhaling from each flower. Which forms a spacious entrance to the bower. Its charms within, a harmony excite — Through quivering leaves descends the dancing light. 290 A verdant carpet round the floor is spread. On which th' Empyreals without foot-print tread — FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Compos'd of tender turf, with flowers bestrown, Scatter'd with wildnesss by the hand unknown. A various charm to every sense is given, Presenting beauty to the eye of heaven. Seats, gold with diamond edg'd, are circling plac'd, Looking towards the south. A rostrum grac'd With matchless workmanship, commands the view — Its just proportions strike with wonder new. 300 When heaven's dread synod in convention meet, The pensive Goddess occupies the seat. On thirteen pillars it majestic stands, The choicest labour of perfective hands, Of gems more precious than frail man beheld, While more than half their splendours are conceal'd: First the cornelian with a roseate eye. With which the colours of the topaz vie. A tender green is to the beryl given; The sapphire imitates cerulean heaven. 310 The unstained crystal pours a radiance bright, And next in order is the chrysolite. The amethyst with modest violet glows, Through which the amber of the jacinth flows. The virgin ruby blushes in its face — The emerald flourishing as spring-time grace. The sardine's beauty melts upon the sight; The polish'd marble varies with delight. Brilliant the diamond burns with quenchless ray, Pouring afar the splendidness of day. 320 On these rich pillars is the rostrum seen, Fashioned of gold, inlaid with gems serene. Silver the steps, reflecting as they rise A light that adds a charm to Paradise. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Pearl is the floor, smooth as a crystal sea, Where heaven is pictur'd in its symmetry. Full on its front, by beauty is engrav'd An eagle, lightning-ey'd with pinions wav'd. His dexter claw the sacred olive holds, His left the pointed arrows strong infolds: 330 Sceptres and crowns lie broke, his feet beneath, While royal trappings blaze before his breath. A galaxy of stars illumes his head. Whose beams divergent dazzle as they spread. Now, on those plains that join th' immortal hill, From whence meanders many a cascade rill, The host celestial congregating meet With looks that show their happiness complete; Smiles play in ringlets dimpling round their cheek — Eyes glancing rapture, of the soul bespeak. 340 In radiant files admiringly they move, Leaving the vale to reach the mountain grove. Fredonia habited in robes divine, Leads with smooth step the consecrated line; Her snowy right sustains a cap and spear, The verdant olives in her left appear. On as she ghdes like music touch'd with grace. Love's roseate blushes paradise her face. Next Independence dignified moves forth, His fashion vigorous, though of heaven his birth. 350 His full-archM bosom partial is revealed — He bears a feather'd arrow, bow and shield. Justice advances with unchanging mien, Sedate, majestic, yet not unserene. His hand sustains a sword of diamond pure, — His righteous judgments like its edge endure. FREDONIAD. CANTO IH. Mild temperance sheds a gladness o'er the plain, DeHght and health are smiling in her train; Their steps, so buoyant, scarce the flow'rets press, 360 Their eyes receiving and returning bliss. Industry, blushing like the risen morn, Is grac'd with harvest-hook and golden corn; Sweet-eyed Contentment in her hand she leads. As gay she trips it o'er the laughing meads. Then Patiiotism, mark'd with port sublime And step unwavering, treads th' Elysian clime. A garland laurel wove, his temples bear; His eye looks future with a pondering air. All self is rooted from each inward part — A beam of honour burns upon his heart. 370 The goddess Victory supports a shield, Flashing a dazzling brilliance o'er the field. She moves direct where Patriotism shows — A star-crown'd phoenix stands upon her brows. With holy Love soft Charity combines, Around whose neck a smiling cherub twines: The sweetest odours to her breath are given — .Her heart is tender as the thoughts of heaven. With feet in cadency moves gentle Peace, Without whose presence heaven would lose its grace; 380 Robes wrought by Deity her hmbs infold. Whilst round her curl bright rainbows fringed with gold. Next soul-enrapturing Hope is blithesome seen, On playful tiptoe dancing o'er the green: Flowers bloom full-bosom'd where she prints her tread, While pictur'd visions ghtter round her head. Other high virtues wonderful appear, Beyond conception of earth's grovelUng sphere. 2* FREDONIAD. CANTO HI. i These having pass'd, — translated souls glide forth, Who bless'd mankind what time they dwelt on earth; 390 Wash'd in the purifying streams above, Half veil'd in radiance to the bower they move. First of the circle Washington appears, Whose august virtue the full heaven reveres. Crouchant the lion stoops with humbled eye — An eagle greets him from sublimity. With golden clarions seraphim proclaim: ''Behold a mortal of immortal name!" Montgomery next approaching wins the sight, Serenely mild as evening's mellow light. 400 His temples stars with radiancy adorn, Pure as creation at her birth-day morn. Warren deep blushes with the glow of youth — His heart beat vital in the cause of truth. Wrapp'd in the beams new-burnish'd from on high, His bosom feels a throbbing ecstasy. With kindred likeness of an angel's mien, The next advancing is the potent Greene. Laurels, the growth of heaven, his brows surround — His eyes flash victory with look profound. 410 Knox, Lincoln, Sumpter, Marion, Clinton, Wayne, Reid, Otis, Laurens, mingle in the train — Mercer and Woodster, Sterling — names of light — Nash, Morgan, Chase, Pulaski, bless the sight — Putnam and Prescott, Pomeroy — Bunker's Height ! ! Franklin appears with wisdom in his form. Whose arm had tam'd the lightnings of the storm. E'en Virtue's self receives a brighter shine From the dread presence of the man divine. FREDONIAD. CA^TO III. Hancock and Adams next engage the view, 420 Clad with the righteousness of honour new. By their high deeds a tyrant throne was riven, For which they triumph on the plains of heaven. These patriots having pass'd, th' illustrious Jay Glides without effort o'er the flowery way. While in the prisonment of flesh he dwelt, He the sharp tooth of rancorous faction felt: But now he walks in pristine glory forth, — Spotless his robes expressive of his worth. Next Henry lone is seen — pillar of light — 430 He broke the darkness of tyrannic night. His voice spoke thunder to an iron throne, And made the holy cause of freedom knov/n. A halo burning round his front appears — His tongue inspir'd, gave answer to the spheres. Nor shall the muse forget thy memory, Ames! Thy voice was richer than a poet's dreams! The flint in marble hearts was soft as snow, When the sweet honey from thy lips did flow — Thy name brings back the years for ever gone, 440 When Friendship bless'd me with thine elder son — When round our brows Hope pour'd her gladdening ray — When young Ambition gave the pulse its play. And golden pleasures stole the hours away! Thy^ame with his shall dwell upon my heart, Till in my bosom Death shall thrust his dart. Now two illustrious sons of epic song Are heard to sing with transport on their tongue. Barlow's soft numbers flow with smooth delight, Him, sweetly answering, swells harmonious Dwight. 450 FEEDONIAD. CANTO IH. When poet's lightning burnt within their breast. They felt a feeling never yet express'd; They rode the thunder-clouds when black with wary Or held sweet converse with each social star — The comets, visited, in fiery robes — Worlds above worlds — revolving globes on globes; — Or when to earth they bent their lofty wing, They trac'd the gushing of the limpid spring, Feeding the flow'rets of the meadows gay, The grass-spears starting in their bright array 460 Clustering around; the dews upon the stem — The jewelry in nature's diadem. Dancing in bliss; the butterfly, the mite, Of curious plumagej would their minds excite. x\.nd then impatient would they glance to heaven, — At length fruition to their souls is given. West passes next — the child of nature true, — Under whose touch the living features grew. Why from thy bosom'd country, didst thou roam? Was not thy genius honour'd — priz'd at home? 470 Forbear the theme: from earth enfranchis'd now, With pencils dipp'd in heaven thy vast conceptions show. West is succeeded in the train by Rush — Whose cheek made youthful glows with starry blush. Perfective wisdom stamp'd his every plan — Unspotted virtue sanctified the man. In him, the widow and the orphan found A husband, father, for their anguish'd wound. His country's glory was the polar beam, That cheer'd his soul on life's tempestuous stream. 480 He met disease and foil'd him of his dart — Pain and Despair forsook the struggling heart. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Death trembled at his coming — withering fled — The dying rose and bless'd his hoary head. Lo, now he basks beneath the beams of love, Freed, through death's portal, to the courts above. The eagle soul of Rittenhouse appears, Whose winkless eye observ'd the flaming spheres. Live at his touch a universe sprang forth- — To spaceless worlds he gave a second birth. 480 Godfrey and Fulton, wedded hand in hand, With eye of science, ken the wonderous land; That with his quadrant had revers'd the sun, And taught the mariner his course to run; This with expansive vapour urg'd the ship, In stern defiance of th' opposing deep. . What patriot heart can hear of Whitney's name. And feel no passion in his bosom flame To hail the man, whose mental powers unfurl' d Th' ingenious art, by which is cloth'd the world ! 490 He from the cotton sifted out the seed, Which gives him title to poetic meed. Columbus follows next by millions blest — Three ships in miniature adorn his breast. A burning star illuminates his brow, With rays resplendent thirty points and two. O how ungrateful to purloin thy fame, And give thy glory to another's name! Lo, for a world, the earth but dungeons gave ! But heaven is just — rewards beyond the grave. 500 Others innumerous glide upon their rear. Fine arts and science in their looks appear — Themes that delight in the celestial sphere, *2* FREDONIAD. CANTO HI. Bath'd in the streams of life no mortal mind Can scan their joys with sacredness refin'd: Conceive perfection pure as hallow'd light — Think of thrill'd ecstasy^ beyond delight — Wind the soul's fancy till it feels a press — An holy shivering with its happiness — Beyond impassion'd thought their raptures tower — 510 As earth is distant from Creative Power! * if- i(- * ^ *■ * *■ * But who is this initiated now? Wisdom and eloquence adorn his brow! A brilliant halo round his temple plays — He seems bewilder'd in a tranceful maze. — 'Tis Pinckney smiling o'er death! whose tongue Made the heart play as if with music strung — The aged felt their languid veins beat young. Th' empyreal train with measur'd step proceed, Winding the mountain where the flower-bees feed. 520 Through paths with manna sprinkled, smooth they rise, Ravish'd, impress'd with holy sympathies. Myrtles profuse their odours breathe around — Th' immortal amaranth delights the ground. Roses unfold their bosoms to the day, And all their sweets without a thorn display. On every side infantile spirits move, Whose dimpling features smile the smile of love. Their dove-like wings exuberant charms unfold, Dipp'd in the rainbow, edg'd with melted gold, 530 Some, harps self tun'd, — some, timbrels, bear in hand, Whose notes of symphony the soul command. Light as their fingers kiss the trembling strings, Each voice an anthem voluntary sings — FREDONIAD. CANTO III. So pasing sweet the music floats around, The flow'rets new with life lean forward to the sound. At length they enter in the bowery grove, Fill'd with the fragrancy of heaven above. To golden seats in circles they repair — The goddess elevated, shows an air 540 Serenely tender, that reveals her breast With some concernment heavily depress'd. Now Justice dignified extends his hand — The music dies of the infantile band: Their wings expanding wave with motion hght, Reflecting beauties that surprise the sight; Their blushing feet on palms and olivet rest, While love's soft breathings nestle in their breast. The music hush'd — Fredonia rises now, A wreath of graces curhng round her brow. 550 Transparent colours in her cheeks unite, The opening rose, the lily's virgin white. With voice attun'd to a delicious note, Sweet through the bower her words harmonious float. *' Ye heaven-translated of the world above — Feasting unsated on ambrosial love! Mine eyes are swimming in a tide of bliss To greet you here from scenes of bitterness. '' For twice ten summers from these bowers Pve stray 'd, And the full earth through all its parts survey'd — 560 Its passion, scan'd with scrutinizing eye, Tracing the progress of its liberty. " Alas! there's none of the terrestial sphere, That the invitings of my voice would hear. FBEDONIAD. CANTO HI. Round Afric's shores a slaving ignorance reigns, And superstition crimsons Asia's plains. Yet hope appears to waken like a dream On Egypt's Nile — a faint, a flickering gleam, Returning like a star for ages hid Behind the shadow of her pyramid. 570 Ancient Byzantium also seems to feel Some stirring impulse for the general weal. Europea's offspring makes a specious show, As if the boon of liberty they know; But all their knowledge is a sounding name — They groan oppress'd with tyrant power the same. A'^ain splendour forms the worship of their souls, Which the free impulse of the heart controls. What now their hopes, the highest satisfies. Is tinsel wealth and things of butterflies. 580 " No evil, greater, can a state befall, Then bow and worship at a monarch's call — An easy task to profligate the one. The subjects follow, and how soon undone! " I for a time, inviting struck my lyre On the green borders of the Seine, and Loire. The Franks, transported with the glorious theme, Sung swelling anthems o'er each happy stream; But soon grim Anarchy appear'd and fill'd The heart with rancour, which the affections chill'd. 590 Son met his father, reckless of his years — The rivers burst their banks with blood and tears; With aching bosom from the land I flew, Unable to behold the bleeding view. " From this dread scene I pass'd to Erin's plain — But round her shores I tun'd her harp in vain. FBEDONIAD. CANTO HI. The notes at first were soothing to her heart, And ne'er, O never did I think to part. Behold, a prowling Lion check'd the strain! I left her tearful, stooping o'er the main." 600 ********* Her bosom trembled — she let fall a tear — More lucid drop than that — (the morning clear) Which hangs suspended from a leaf's extreme, A beauteous mirror for the orient beam. ********* The cherubs fill the pause with melting song — The weeping numbers sighing they prolong; Their voice uniting with their harps, so faint, And yet so tender the soul-moving plaint. The glorious synod languish while they feel A something holy, that no words reveal. 610 The anthem clos'd — the subject she pursues. Her blue eyes floating in the trembling dews; " From the Green-Isle I pass'd the western tide, The sweet ey'd star of evening was my guide. I met Columbia, — and with transport soon, I warm'd her heart with Freedom's lofty tune." Lo, at the mention of her sacred name, The sainted patriots felt a hallow'd flame Glow in their bosoms, and with impulse strong They pour'd their gushing rapture from their tongue: 620 " Hail! Hail! All Hail! Columbia, ever be Cemented and abide in Liberty!" The voice of heaven proceeds: " Each object thrill'd My heart with gladness as my course I held, To me an offering of bright flowers they strew'd Through cities throng'd or vales of solitude. 1 FREDOKIAD. CANTO in. They bless'd the names who stemm'd corruption's flood — All felt their freedom purchas'd, was with blood. The temple which to me you there uprear'd, Was still exalted, honour'd and rever'd. 630 Peace o'er the land her gentle doves display'd— No jars intestine shook their faith dismay'd. Joys circled joys on buoyant tiptoe round — The valhes bloom'd with life by Plenty crown'd, Each soul breath'd valour — generous every heart — Substantial virtues strengthen'd every part. Their voices shrill, re-echo'd to my lyre, Which warm'd their feelings with a kindling fire. " But language cannot speak what sad I fear'd, When forth from hell two hideous fiends appear'd-- 640 Avarice! fell Luxury! — from Albion's Isle, They brought the bane Columbia to defile. " Now wings of gaudy insects charm their sight, Music of gold is transport, exquisite. Th' invading poison circulates around — No real virtue consecrates the ground. Agents entrusted with the people^s power, E'en should it be but for a transient hour — That hour they sacrifice to bitter feud, And not devote it to the public good. 650 False they exclaim against deceptive wiles. Though at the time, with artificial smiles, They rob the people of their rights — -connive At wickedness, that they themselves may thrive. To cover o'er their art, their tongues are loud. My name to publish to the listening crowd. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. " I turned disgusted from the darkening scene, And rose to heaven this consult to convene, That you th' afflicting circumstance might hear, And learn the deepness of its character. 660 " Fame I instructed to abide on earth, T' attend th' events, momentous passing forth. Unseen she stood within the hall of state, To hear the manner of their full debate." She pauses, damp'd with tears — her bosom heaves With deep concernment, while the synod grieves. In her soft breast, such passions habit there, Her tongue refuses farther to declare. She waves to Independence on the right, That he should rise— the painful theme recite. 670 (He from the earth had late advanc'd his way, To join th' Immortals in their bright array.) '^And must I sad the circumstance unfold — The icy truth? Columbia kneels to gold'. The plotting Fiend devotes his every hour To bow her sons beneath a kingly power — To bar Fredonia from the land away, < And govern earth with a despotic sway. No method, art, device, will be untried, That on their necks audacious he may ride. 680 Discord triumphant thunders round her shores — At every stride his voice augmenting roars. *To break their union's chain his hopeful plan, To grasp the nation in his withering span. " The hardy virtues of their sires have fled — They yield the liberty for which they bled: Tamely they suffer Britain to excite Th' unsparing savage to the murderous rite; FREDONIAD. CANTO III. T' emission spies to watch their weaker part, And thus stab Freedom secret at the heart; 690 To bar their traversing the ocean free, Unless to her they price the Hberty!* To smite their vessels through an envious pride, While on their own bright waters they abide; T' impress their bosom'd offspring in their fleets, Where Cruelty his poison'd dagger whets— Where Mercy faints, — where Faith and Hope expire, And all the virtues weepingly retire — To starve — to scourge — " His utterance was suppress'd 700 By scenes of blood that labour'd in his breast. Unconscious tears are seen in every eye, Expressive of the soul's deep sympathy — Such tears as to immortal eyes are given, Pure as the droppings from a rainbow'd heaven. In holy sorrow Washington arose — Thus the sad fulness of his bosom flows : " Frequent my heart hath been oppress'd with fears. That, for my country I should shed these tears; Long ere my soul bade farewell to the earth, 710 I saw these monsters through the land stride forth — Avarice, at times, uprear'd his feverish head, And sliding Luxury, from the ocean fed. " When late I fill'd the presidential seat, Britannia strove to bind us with her fleet, — Our Eagle free upon the seas, debas'd — A stain indelible, — our name, disgrac'd — * Transit dutv. FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Tore our defenceless mariners from home — Their slavery fix'd — irremeable doom! *' Columbia wept in bitterness of wo, 720 In friendship's mask to find a treacherous foe. Rous'd by injustice, I address'd her throne, And firm in purpose, made the grievance known. With seeming truth, in promise, she complied — Yet I but partial on her faith relied. Where interest leads, her promises are vain — Revenge and malice in her councils reign. " But O reveal — is Freedom's virtue gone? Is all the sense of right and honour done? Are all the worthies whom X left behind 730 Bent on the knee — to infamy consign'd? Alas, the theme! — Of Jefferson, O say — And hath his virtue gone the slippery way? Pickering, Monroe, Scott, Shelby, Madison, Within whose veins a bold resistance run? Floyd, Gerry, Sullivan, Heath, Stark, and King, , Who ever to thy name did incense bring? Pearce, Dearborn, Eustis, Carioll, Macon, Strong, That shouted liberty in choral song? " And O inform me of that virtuous Frank, 740 Who scorn'd his princely birth, and join'd the rank With those for freedom toiling — Lafayette — Who oft in battle made his sword-steel wet With blood of tyranny — whose soul stood high To give to man his boon of liberty." He sat: Fredonia with sweet breath began. While melting passion through her features ran: " Son of my bosom, — matchless heir of heaven! The songs of angels to thy worth are given! 3* FREDONIAD. CANTO III. What transport should I feel could I relate, 760 That all stood lofty as of ancient date! But by the arts and cunning wiles of hell, Against their country many sad rebel — Wither'd their laurels — blotted out their fame, Pleading for Albion in her cruel claim! "Their names I'll mention not, 'twould wound your ear To learn how lost their former character." A murmuring deep of indignation rose, To hear that numbers treacherous should oppose Celestial liberty — plead tyrant laws, _ 760 And heap disgrace upon the nation's cause. But soon she gave them peace: What though this loss? A host stand purified from slaving dross: " Gerry a pillar of the state remains. And Sullivan his dignity sustains, Stark and the veteran Pearce adhere to truth — New burnishing the glory of their youth. Never will Shelby, Eustis, be forgot, Nor Macon sage in years, nor dauntless Scott. Dearborn the scales of even justice holds, 770 And all his virtues for the cause unfolds. Monroe, ingrafted with his country's name. Contends her rights unshaken and the same. " Great Jefferson demands of heaven its praise — I've bound his temples with the civic bays! He ruled the nation with a sage-like skill, When faction's voice was heard from every hill. Around his brows will clustering honours twine. Till full of years he gains this world divine. '' The ancient Carroll and the hoary Floyd, 780 Who were thy colleagues when thine arms destroy'd FREDOMAD. CANTO III. The claims of hard oppression in the east. And Independence shouted in the west — Stand in uprightness as in former day, And grow in virtue as their heads grow gray. " And, ah! what bosom ever can forget The nameless virtues of the good Fayette? A star of promise, he in youth appear'd, Whose holy hght the breast of sages cheer'd; In age, a pillar of a cloud by day "^^ To guide the pilgrim-wanderers on their way, Searching the mountain-grove where Freedom dwells To wave her standard on a thousand hills 1 '-' The bane of tyrants he exalted lives. While from each patriot, reverence he receives. Pure as devotions of the prophets old, When they the purpose of their God foretold! '' Now the Republic hearkens to the voice Of Madison — its free elective choice. His fame unsullied ever will abide, 800 While spotless worth shall character decide. '• An host of others I could mention now, Whose upright knee will ne'er to luxury bow — Who from oppression ever will be free, Or die the martyrs of their liberty!" Thrill'd with her voice the cherubs struck the lyre — The souls translated kindled with the fire, They sang: " Columbia, let thy name be free. Or die the martyr of thy hberty!" The chorus ended, Franklin rising speaks, 810 Celestial wisdom flushing o'er his cheeks: FREDONIAD. CANTO III. '' Freedom's Divinity! None shall despoil Thy hallow'd temple! — sudden will recoil Their arts, and hide them from the virtuous eye, Or only thought of to their infamy. Yet 'tis most grievous to behold the band Loosen'd from hell to desolate the land: But still a galaxy of names appear, Whose steel-bound joints wWl never stoop to feai-. In these I rest my hopes — they'll hold the cause 820 Of right and justice, liberty and laws. The subject never from their minds will fade, Till haughty Britain is repentant made. They've borne her cruel tyrannies too long — Ere this with steel should they have search'd the wrong. Yet will the Eagle in her strength arise, And swell her pinions in remotest skies— Beneath her wing, the lion lap the dust- Justice will speak, and speak the cause is just." His language touch'd the soul's ecstatic chord — 830 Their every eye was brighten'd at each word. Justice express'd his thoughts: " Yes, I decree Their cause is just, and Albion bends the knee! '' Long hath thy breast with anxious cares been riven. Clouded, then brighten'd, then to darkness given — Pain hast thou suffer'd, such as heaven can feel, To mark thy children their destruction seal. Thy tender heart felt pressure on the earth To see the agency of hell stride forth — Plotting the mind's uprightness to debase, 840 And bring the dress of virtue in disgrace. '' But the glad promises that Franklin spoke, FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Nothing — no particle shall e'er be broke; No, never shall thy sons, Fredonia, bow, To civil discord, or Britannia's brow. Fix'd is my word — unalter'd my decree- Victorious shall Columbia bound the sea; And after various struggles on the land, No hostile footstep shall imprint the sand. " Yes, Jefferson — how precious is his name! 850 My tongue delights to dwell upon the theme! The elder Adams also has my care — He stood for Freedom with his bosom bare. His mind is as the star that gilds the north — Unchang'd its brilliance since its day of birth. " Lo, I this honour to their worth decree — That they upon the nation's Jubilee, Shall be translated from the mortal sphere T' embrace their Washington and Franklin here." A song of triumph pour'd from every tongue — ■ 860 With loud hosannas the empyrean rung; Great was the joy — it overflow'd the breast, That Freedom's Jubilee should make them bless'd. Justice proceeds. Fame enters soon the bower, To bear the word that humbles Albion's power. " Yet such is man, clogg'd in the vale below, He first must feel before he'll virtue know. In vain that Washington with tears impress'd HisFarewell Blessing on his country's breast — ■ In which he urg'd them to avoid the fiend, 870 Who in a borrow'd guise assum'd the friend; The factious ever, ever to abjure; By every mean their Union to secure-^ FREDONIAD. CANTO HI. Nor let the different stars of east or west, Or north, or south, disturb the nation's rest; To fly from jealousy — vindictive hate, Which soon would strangle freedom in the state ; To watch with eagle eye ambitious minds, Whom oath, nor league of sacred friendship binds — And thus become a nation rul'd by law, 880 And not by men — nor change with every flaw. *' From this, his parting voice, they've turn'd aside. Yea, with a scoff his maxims they deride! Hence they these truths to know, must sharply feel Arrows acute, avenging, biting steel; Refin'd, at length, by keen affliction taught, They'll rise to virtue and redeem their fault — Live till the trump shall echo from the sky To wake the sleepers from mortality'. '* List to the sound that breaks upon the ear! 890 'Tis Fame ascending — Lo! she's present here!" Scarce ceas'd the clarion of approaching Fame, When the bright goddess like celestial flame, Enter'd the bower! Th' immortals lean profound To catch her accents as they echo round. " Rejoice, ye bless'd inhabitants of heaven ! Behold, subHmity from earth is given! Scarce from his ball hath Time uncoiled a thread. Since I the temple of Columbia fled. " Thy offspring longer than the present hour, 900 Could suffer not the grasp of tyrant power; But war have they with righteousness declar'd, The independence of their name to guard ! " This was the labour of a fearless band, In stern defiance of the civil brand FREDONIAD. CANTO III. Flaming the nation round — whose names will be Like rocks amid the uproar of the sea, Never to perish till eternity! " Columbia bounding on her flaming car From shore to shore, proclaims the avenging war. 910 Her eye on heaven is bent to aid her cause — To bind the states in one and vindicate her laws." Fame ended thus; and thus the glorious band: '* Columbia, hail! thy liberty shall stand! Thou sunderest the links of Luxury's chain; 'Tis thine to curb the pirate of the main. Ere that thy sword shall in its scabbard rest, Deep to the Hfe it wounds Britannia's breast. Columbia, hail! let Union be thy star, And it shall guide to victory in war." 920 When ceas'd the anthem, Henry stately rose — This language ardent from his bosom flows: " My soul is deified beyond her sphere By the glad sound that broke upon my ear. Now shall Columbia, without period, be The seat of Science and of Liberty. Ye heaven-wash'd souls that beautify these bowers. Are not your hearts refresh'd like sprinkled flowers? Not vainly have you spent your lives on earth — Your offspring testify their patriot birth. 930 " As Justice righteous counsell'd at the close. So without succour let them meet their foes; By which they'll learn how once their fathers fought — How dear the price that they their freedom bought; Knowing its cost, they'll prize the gem more high, And guard the blessing as divinitv. FREDONIAD. CANTO lU. " As guileful agents strive to bend them down, And make them slaving subjects of a crown, Hence, heaven should only for a time be hid, 940 Till they experiencexwhat their fathers did; Or like a ring of adamant they join Solid in one and cramp the foe's design — Then thou, Fredonia, shouldst from this depart, And with thy virtues animate their heart — Drive back grim Discord howling from the soil, And all the darkness on the Fiend recoil. " Till then, no succour from thine arm be given, But jealous mark them from the wall of heaven." He paus'd. — None rising, Justice hails the vote — When all, with hand upon the breast, assent denote, 950 At sound of infant harps th' empyreals rise — Stars new created brightening o'er the skies. In happy troops on buoyancy they float, While in rapt ecstasy they strike the note, That thrills, and burns with inspiration high, And bears them upward to the Deity. 1 1 ^ki^'r^^^ '^!'^m6(:^^^r\r^.r^ mlMMmmmmm ^:f^mmt ummk y>/s :'/ ^\Ai:r\f< KfPm ^/^WH/^! 'mwm mmmm- li^lMBBiBri'B '^; ^'W^^^A^/^ ;'jR ^-r^ 'Cp