IV.
Reading edition
Up with the flag! Up, up, betimes, and proudly speak of it; A lordly thing to see on tower and crag, O'er which,—as eagles flit, With eyes a-fire, and wings of phantasy,— Our memories hang superb! The foes we frown upon shall feel the curb Of our full sway; and they shall shaméd be Who wrong, with sword or pen, The Code that keeps us free. For there's no sight, in summer or in spring, Like our great standard-pole, When round about it ring The cheers of Britons, bounden, heart and soul, To deeds of duty, dear to Englishmen; And he who serves it has a name to see On Victory's muster-roll; And he who loves it not, how vile is he! For 'tis the Land's delight,— Our ocean-wonder, blue and red and white; Blue as the skies, and red as roses are, And white as foam that flashed at Trafalgàr; The Land's delight! The badge and test of right, Girt with its glory like a guiding-star!