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SONS OF BRITANNIA.

1813--1891.

_Britannia loquitur_:--

From Boston Bay to Thobal fort
Is a far cry, but bravery bridges
The centuries, and of space makes sport.
The shot that swept the salt sea-ridges
When VERE BROKE of the _Shannon_ smote
The foe, and, struck, left WALLIS smiting,--
Sends echoes down the years that float
To Thobal o'er the sounds of fighting.
Memories of greatness make men great!
Brave centenarian, you with pleasure
May greet the youth who guard our State.
You, whose long memories can measure
So wide a sweep of England's war,
Must joy to see her served as boldly
As in those sad mad days afar,
When, gazing on her children coldly,
She alienated kindred hearts,
Which might till now have beaten loyal.
At least you both played well _your_ parts,
Though blunderers blind, official, royal,
May then or now have marred the work