THE DYKES OF ACADIE.
Oh, marshes green, the dykes of Acadie,
I have been nursed upon thy ancient breast;
I know the patience of thy lap's calm rest;
Bound with the peace of thy serenity.
How many lessons have I learned of thee;
New-born to life, by thee baptized and blest,
Made one with every season's song and nest;
Made one with thee, oh, dykes of Acadie!
So may I live each full and fleeting day,
Absorbing and outgiving all, nor vain
Accepting every shine and every shower;
And lifted like a blade of grass to play
In sun and breeze. So am I old, dear plain,
The better to be young as any flower.
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