The Poetry Corner

Canadian Voyageurs On The Nile.

By James McIntyre

The British soldiers on the Nile With gratitude did kindly smile, On the Canadian voyageurs Who skilfully did ply their oars. And they invoked their benison On boatsmen led by Denison, Neither the rapids nor the falls Along the Nile these braves appals. For in such toils they did partake, On each native stream and lake, Thoughts of their homes in visions throng, While singing Canadian boat song. And they all hoped again to see The glorious land of maple tree, From their memories they never Forgot the land of lake and river. While up the Nile they do advance They dream about their own St. Lawrence, And Manitoba's streams and lakes, Pleasant reflections oft awakes. And thus each day they cheerful toil, Ascending of old Father Nile, Whose waters fertilize the soil, And is the home of crocodile. Wolseley he had exhibition In Red River expedition, How these voyageurs could steer, Or with the axe a roadway clear. Those who speak the tongue of France, From the banks of the St. Lawrence, At call to arms quick advance, With rifle, bayonet and lance.