The New Brunswick Poems of Jonathan Odell

Odell, Jonathan (1737-1818)

Poems of Public Life

ON SEEING THE ADDRESS TO THE SHIP AMERICA IN WHICH GOVERNOR CARLETON AND HIS FAMILY EMBARK FOR ENGLAND

TO THE MEMORY OF LORD NELSON

SONG FOR THE 4TH OF JUNE 1808

SONG FOR THE 104TH

HULL'S INCURSION INTO CANADA

THE BATTLE OF QUEENSTON

Poems of Private Life

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SONG FOR THE 4TH OF JUNE 1808

Though Storm and Tempest shake the World,
And spread despair from Realm to Realm,
Still are our dreaded Sails unfurl'd,
And British Valour holds the Helm.
Rule, Britannia, rule the waves,
And defy the rage of Slaves.

While Gallia's fierce Usurper drives
His flaming Car o'er falling States,
Though leagued with Hell, in vain he strives
To come within thy peaceful Gates.
Rule, Britannia, rule the waves,
Secure against invading Slaves.

For crimes and follies unatton'd,
See thrones and altars round thee blaze;
But still, in loyal hearts enthron'd,
A Patriot King thy Sceptre sways.
Rule, Britannia, rule the waves,
The dread of Tyrants leagued with Slaves.

Secure in Heaven's approving Smile,
The loyal truth its aim attains,
For thee and for thy Sister Isle
Her throne fair Freedom still maintains.
Rule, Britannia, rule the waves,
The Ency of despairing Slaves.

Then, oft as this auspicious day
Fresh joy to Sons of Freedom brings,
Let Love and Duty join to pay
Their tribute to the best of Kings!
Rule, Britannia, rule the waves;
From tyrant Arts to rescue Slaves.

1808

University of Virginia Library

SONG FOR THE 4TH OF JUNE 1808