But now, discharged, I fall away If England was what England seems 'Ow quick we'd chuck 'er! But she ain't! RECESSIONAL GOD of our fathers, known of old, The tumult and the shouting dies; The captains and the kings depart: Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart. Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! Far-called, our navies melt away; On dune and headland sinks the fire: Lo, all our pomp of yesterday Is one with Nineveh and Tyre! Judge of the Nations, spare us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! If, drunk with sight of power, we loose Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe, Such boastings as the Gentiles use, Or lesser breeds without the Law Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, For heathen heart that puts her trust And guarding, calls not Thee to guard, For frantic boast and foolish word Thy Mercy on Thy People, Lord! Amen. |