 | Three Hundred Sonnets |  |
151
ENGLAND APPROVED.
I do believe it, England! God hath blest theeWith all prosperity of heaven and earth
(As man may speak—) according to thy worth:
I do believe, when Duty's power possest thee
Unselfishly, yea sadly, to go forth
And bind that proud Barbarian of the North,
God's love went too, and as His child carest thee:
For, all the fears and perils that opprest thee
Behold them scatter'd in the smile of heaven!
Foes are made friends; where famine gauntly glared
Plenty and peace and happiness are given;
Even the pestilence hath stopp'd and spared
Our chasten'd homes,—though chasten'd not destroy'd,
And rich in good with thanks to be enjoy'd!
| Three Hundred Sonnets | |