Let politicians talk their fill, And papers print what papers will, The common folk on either side Of the invisible divide -- Canadian, United States -- Are providential working mates. Each with a continental task, A neighbor's helping hand we ask. Each under heavy burdens bent, We ask a friend's encouragement. Each holding Britain mother-dear, We ask a brother's loving cheer. Three thousand miles without a fort -- What confidence does that import! Upon the lakes that wash each shore There's not a single ship-of-war! And now, with amity's increase, A blessed century of peace! Both are the heirs of boundless wealth, And of a sturdy nation-health. We both extend our welcoming hands To honest poor of other lands. The same high hopes of splendid growth And world-wide service move us both. Now on our lengthened border-line We give but one glad countersign -- Be it the same till time shall end -- This: "Who goes there?" "A friend!" "A friend!" And let us to all nations prove That nations can as brothers love. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...POETA FIT, NON NASCITUR by CHARLES LUTWIDGE DODGSON THE LILY IN CRYSTAL by ROBERT HERRICK INDIFFERENCE by GEOFFREY ANKETELL STUDDERT-KENNEDY HOLYHEAD, SEPTEMBER 25, 1727 by JONATHAN SWIFT TWILIGHT SYMPHONY by LESLIE ANDERSON |