The Poetry Corner

The "Kentucky"

By Madison Julius Cawein

(Battleship, launched March 24, 1898.) I Here's to her who bears the name Of our State; May the glory of her fame Be as great! In the battle's dread eclipse, When she opens iron lips, When our ships confront the ships Of the foe, May each word of steel she utters carry woe! Here's to her! II Here's to her, who, like a knight Mailed of old, From far sea to sea the Right Shall uphold. May she always deal defeat,-- When contending navies meet, And the battle's screaming sleet Blinds and stuns,-- With the red, terrific thunder of her guns. Here's to her! III Here's to her who bears the name Of our State; May the glory of her fame Be as great! Like a beacon, like a star, May she lead our squadrons far,-- When the hurricane of war Shakes the world,-- With her pennant in the vanward broad unfurled. Here's to her!