Classic Poem

Kruger, I hail thee, late-born ironside,
Who, jeer'd at by a sceptic, scoffing age,
Yet, bold in warfare and in council sage,
With steadfast, strenuous effort hast defied
The lawless greed and overweening pride
That sought by open force or treacherous stealth
To slay or wound thy homely commonwealth—
Helvetia of the south. Whate'er betide,
Valour and constancy to guard her right
Are thine and hers; yet lacks there something more—
To spread within her bounds the sacred light
Of Science and all humanising lore,
And rear amid her brave and stalwart race
The tender flow'rs of gentleness and grace.