She told the story, and the whole world wept <br />At wrongs and cruelties it had not known <br />But for this fearless woman's voice alone. <br />She spoke to consciences that long had slept: <br />Her message, Freedom's clear reveille, swept <br />From heedless hovel to complacent throne. <br />Command and prophecy were in the tone <br />And from its sheath the sword of justice leapt. <br />Around two peoples swelled a fiery wave, <br />But both came forth transfigured from the flame. <br />Blest be the hand that dared be strong to save, <br />And blest be she who in our weakness came-- <br />Prophet and priestess! At one stroke she gave <br />A race to freedom and herself to fame.<br /><br />Paul Laurence Dunbar<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/harriet-beecher-stowe-2/
