Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By George EdwardWoodberry

1215 America to England

MOTHER of nations, of them eldest we,

Well is it found, and happy for the state,

When that which makes men proud first makest them great,

And such our fortune is who sprang from thee,

And brought to this new land from over sea

The faith that can with every household mate,

And freedom whereof law is magistrate,

And thoughts that make men brave, and leave them free.

O Mother of our faith, our law, our lore,

What shall we answer thee if thou shouldst ask

How this fair birthright doth in us increase?

There is no home but Christ is at the door;

Freely our toiling millions choose life’s task;

Justice we love, and next to justice peace.