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Semi-Chorus I
Where are the old gods' altars, where
The primal powers of earth and air—
Jove, and Apollo lord of light?—

Semi-Chorus II
Gone, like the dreams of yester-night.

Semi-Chorus I
Where is the faith in which men died,
Or lived, for love of the Crucified,
Suffering gladly scathe and scorn?—

Semi-Chorus II
Flown with the mists of yestermorn.

Semi-Chorus I
What are the gods they bow before?—

Semi-Chorus II
Saturn and Woden, Friga, Thor.

Semi-Chorus I
Trow ye, then, they are come to stay?—

Semi-Chorus II
These shall be soon with yesterday.

Semi-Chorus I
Who be those that they welcome home?—

Semi-Chorus II
Daughters and sons set free from Rome,
Happy, with all their tears and teen
Past like the dews of yester-e'en.

Semi-Chorus I
What are the tidings that they bring,
Or what the note of their triumphing?—

Semi-Chorus II
Death defeated, and sin's dark fear
Blown to the winds of yester-year.