Attack and storm the fortress at Velasco.
Who are in favor of the motion?
All.
Austin.
Who vote against it? None? The motion is carried.
[A solemn silence]
Russell.
[With inspiration.]
As gathered in their azure ocean's sight
The noble Greeks hurled back the despot's threat,—
As at their crystal glaciers' feet, by night,
To break their yoke, the gallant Switzers met,—
As our forefathers on the common's green
Assembled to protest 'gainst wrongs of power,—
So we amid our prairie-evening scene
Uplift our hands at this inspiring hour,
To call to witness God in Heaven above,
That not our will, but sorest need alone
Calls us to arms, to shield what most we love.
Our faith, our rights, the hearth and home we own.
He who has freed the others through His hand
Will not withhold His aid from this, our land.
Austin.
<poem>Time presses, friends! so let us homeward haste,
