Ante Bellum

Ay, throw our country's banner out!In triumph let it wave,That timid hearts no more may doubtIts power to shield and save.The laggard pulse will quicker moveIts starry folds to seeO'er yonder shaft, that speaks our loveFor him who made us free.

Like eyes with sad reproachful gaze,Its stars will look on thoseWho falter 'neath their steady rays,Or, faithless, turn to foes.Its stripes, like tongues of living flame,As North and South they dart,Shall hiss with words of scorn and shameFor every traitor heart.

Then fling it to the eager wind,Let its broad splendors flyO'er those who strive again to bindThe severed Union tie!And should their arms too weak to saveTh' imperilled land be found,O, let no alien symbol waveAbove this sacred ground!