The Poetry Corner

Washington's Monument.

By George Pope Morris

A monument to Washington? A tablet graven with his name?-- Green be the mound it stands upon, And everlasting as his fame! His glory fills the land--the plain, The moor, the mountain, and the mart! More firm than column, urn, or fane, His monument--the human heart. The Christian--patriot--hero--sage! The chief from heaven in mercy sent; His deeds are written on the age-- His country is his monument. "The sword of Gideon and the Lord" Was mighty in his mighty hand-- The God who guided he adored, And with His blessing freed the land. The first in war--the first in peace-- The first in hearts that freeman own; Unparalleled till time shall cease-- He lives immortal and alone. Yet let the rock-hewn tower arise, High to the pathway of the sun, And speak to the approving skies Our gratitude to Washington.