George Edward Woodberry (1855–1930)

THOU art the rock of empire, set mid-seas

Between the East and West, that God has built;

Advance thy Roman borders where thou wilt,

While run thy armies true with his decrees,

Law, justice, liberty—great gifts are these;

Watch that they spread where English blood is spilt,

Lest, mixed and sullied with his country’s guilt

The soldier’s lifestream flow, and Heaven displease!

Two swords there are: one naked, apt to smite

Thy blade of war; and, battle-storied, one

Rejoices in the sheath, and hides from light.

American I am; would wars were done!

Now westward, look, my country bids good-night—

Peace to the world from ports without a gun!