Written in 1864.
Reading edition
What right to freedom when we are not free? When all the passions goad us into lust; When, for the worthless spoil we lick the dust, And while one-half our people die, that we May sit with peace and freedom 'neath our tree, The other gloats for plunder and for spoil: Bustles through daylight, vexes night with toil, Cheats, swindles, lies and steals!--Shall such things be Endowed with such grand boons as Liberty Brings in her train of blessings? Should we pray That such as these should still maintain the sway-- These soulless, senseless, heartless enemies Of all that's good and great, of all that's wise, Worthy on earth, or in the Eternal Eyes!
Charleston Mercury.