Classic Poem

Now , God be praised! the fetters fast are falling,
The voice of Freedom sounds in lands afar:
Above the clouds of war, my soul appalling,
I see the shining of the Bethlehem star.

Poland has freedom! God alone hath done it:
The hearts of kings are in his hand alone;
No strife of arms, no pleading voice, hath won it:
Take thou the praise, O Lord! it is thine own.

The Sobieskies smile from heights of glory;
Brave Kosciusko shouts with holy joy.
I see them cast their crowns, O Lord! before thee,
Amid the host of Freedom's sons on high.

Long may the Polish peasant, freedom sharing,
Clasp hands with us across the mighty sea;
Love the good Czar, in God's own time appearing
To do his will, but give the praise to Thee!

For thou alone hast freed them, mighty Leader!
Stretch thou thine arm above our crimson sea!
Let Poland see that the same God who freed her
Hath given us peace, and made our bondmen free!