INDEPENDENCE-DAY.

Through the dusty street And the broiling heat, To the sound of the stirring drum, With a martial grace And measured pace, See the proud young patriots come! Why march they so, With martial show, These sons of patriot sires? What glorious thought, From the dim past caught, Their brave young hearts inspires? Sure the souls of boys Love din and noise, And they love to march along To the ringing cheers That greet their ears From the loud-applauding throng. But a grander thought In their breasts hath wrought Than the love of vain applause, For strong and deep Is the mighty sweep Of their love for Freedom's cause. They have heard the tale Of the hero Hale, They have read of Washington, And they know full well How Warren fell Ere the fight was scarce begun. And the long grand scroll Of the muster-roll Of Freedom's patriot band, With hearts aflame At each noble name, Their eager eyes have scanned. And now, as they hear Loud cheer on cheer Roll out like a mighty wave, They think of the bold Brave men of old, And the land they died to save. March on, brave boys, With your din and noise, Through the hot and dusty way, And strong and sweet May your hearts e'er beat For glad Independence-day!