(Presbyter of Christ in Americas 1683-1708) <br /> <br />To thee, plain hero of a rugged race, <br />We bring the meed of praise too long delayed! <br />Thy fearless word and faithful work have made <br />For God's Republic firmer path and place <br />In this New World: thou hast proclaimed the grace <br />And power of Christ in many a forest glade, <br />Teaching the truth that leaves men unafraid <br />Of frowning tyranny or death's dark face. <br /> <br />Oh, who can tell how much we owe to thee, <br />Makemie, and to labour such as thine, <br />For all that makes America the shrine <br />Of faith untrammeled and of conscience free? <br />Stand here, grey stone, and consecrate the sod <br />Where rests this brave Scotch-Irish man of God!<br /><br />Henry Van Dyke<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/francis-makemie/
