Prepare.
Again in the distance the war-dogs are growling,
Dense clouds black as Erebus darken the air!
The vulture's wild scream to the wolf's dismal howling,
'Mid cry of the Eagles bids Europe—Prepare!
Dear England! thy duty lies plainly before thee;
'Tis due to thy children, as faithful as free—
'Tis due to the Queen, who so mildly reigns o'er thee,
To prepare for whatever the fates may decree.
Yet having prepared, may no sense of false honour
Induce thee to join in a cause not thine own;
But if any should dare to fix: insult upon her,
England's mode of returning an insult—is known!
No longer she heeds whatsoe'er it may cost her
(All feelings save honour at once set aside)—
What true son of her's, if that feeling were lost her,
Would look on her longer with love or with pride?
Collected and calm, as becomes a great nation,
Await the events that thou may'st not control;
In attitude peaceful maintain thy proud station.
While happily by thee the war-tide may roll;
But if, in defence of thy soil or thy freedom,
Rude war is forced on thee in spite of thy care.
Whoever thy foes, dearest England, ne'er heed 'em,
Thou hast but one duty, it is—To Prepare!
