I send to you, - whose sires have held
Their firm unwavering stand,
For far-seen light and honest faith
Amid a raging land,
Fearless upon the scaffold steps
Or field of Sheriffmuir, -
These lays of long-past fights of Spain
And Britain's latest war,

Knowing that one who loves as you
This isle serene and strong
Will something see of noble aim
In my weak flight of song,
And, tho' that Titan strife of Spain
Some mighty singer needs,
Will read with no unkindly heart
Poor songs of deathless deeds.