Page:The Domestic Affections, and Other Poems.pdf/71

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THE BARDS,

TO THE SOLDIERS OF CARACTACUS.

Valiant sons of freedom's land,
Ardent, firm, devoted band,
Rise, at honor's thrilling call:
Warriors, arm! shall Britain fall?
    Rush, battle-steed,
    Bleed, soldiers! bleed,

For Britain's throne, for glory's meed!

Heroes! to the combat fly,
Proud to struggle, blest to die;
Go! should death your efforts crown,
Mount the pinions of renown;
    Go! tell our sires,
    Their daring fires,

Glow in our lofty souls, till life expires!