Stedman and Hutchinson, comps. A Library of American Literature:
An Anthology in Eleven Volumes. 1891.
Vols. IX–XI: Literature of the Republic, Part IV., 1861–1889
The Crown
By Ray Palmer (18081887)T
Or weights, the wearer’s brow to press;
But Thou, O Christ, dost give the just
A nobler crown of righteousness.
On Thine a gift of love bestowed,
Diviner splendors shall reveal
Than e’er on princely head have glowed.
Now wear the crown that wore Thy shame,
That many a wasting anguish knew,
And as through fires to glory came.
And oft with prayers our groans ascend;
We battle for immortal life,—
Give strength and courage to the end.
When we shall lay our armor down,—
“The faith ye kept! Ye won the day!
Come, take and wear the matchless crown!”