Part 2 — THE HOUR OF VICTORY.

Meridian moments! grandly given To cheer the warrior's soul from heaven! God's ancient boon, vouchsafed to those Who battle long with Freedom's foes,— Oh, what in life can claim the power To match with that divinest hour? I see the avenging angel wave His banner o'er the embattled brave; I hear above Hate's trumpet-blare The shout that rends the smoking air, And then I know at whose command The victor sweeps the Rebel land! Enduring Valor lifts his head To count the flying and the dead; Returning Virtue still maintains The right to break unhallowed chains; While sacred Justice, born of God, Walks regnant o'er the bleeding sod.