Classic Poem

Adown the broad and rushing Rhine
Our trusty shallop cuts her way,
While round us tower and hill-top shine,
Beneath the sunset's burning ray:
And oh, we bless thee, deep blue Rhine!
But not for thine abounding tide;
'Tis for the bright and blushing vine,
That ripens by thy sunny side.

We see the clustered gold, oh Rhine!
Its burning topaz glory throw
We see the purple gleam divine,
And richer yet the ruby glow:
And oh, we bless thee, deep blue Rhine!
But not for thine abounding tide;
'Tis for the bright and blushing vine,
That ripens by thy sunny side.

Then let us quaff to bless the Rhine,
Who makes each kindred impulse start,
A beaker of his generous wine,
And feel it circle round the heart:
For oh, we bless thee, deep blue Rhine!
But not for thine abounding tide;
'Tis for the bright and blushing vine,
That ripens by thy sunny side.