EMPERORS and Kings, how oft have temples rung <br />With impious thanksgiving, the Almighty's scorn! <br />How oft above their altars have been hung <br />Trophies that led the good and wise to mourn <br />Triumphant wrong, battle of battle born, <br />And sorrow that to fruitless sorrow clung! <br />Now, from Heaven-sanctioned victory, Peace is sprung; <br />In this firm hour Salvation lifts her horn. <br />Glory to arms! But, conscious that the nerve <br />Of popular reason, long mistrusted, freed <br />Your thrones, ye Powers, from duty fear to swerve! <br />Be just, be grateful; nor, the oppressor's creed <br />Reviving, heavier chastisement deserve <br />Than ever forced unpitied hearts to bleed.<br /><br />William Wordsworth<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/emperors-and-kings-how-oft-have-temples-rung/
