The Answer Of The Flag

CHILD speaks:

Flag of our Country, Our red, white, and blue, Say, whence are thy colors-- Each wonderful hue?

FLAG speaks:

Deep in the sunset sky, When light was dying, Streamed crimson banners, like Wild armies flying. Where, ’twixt two bands of gray, One bar lay flaming, Leaned I and plucked it out, Mine for the claiming.

CHILD speaks:

Flag of our Country, Right well hast thou done! Thy red glows like rubies, Like heart of the sun.

FLAG speaks:

When Summer lays her hand, Softly caressing, Over the rounded earth, Leaving her blessing, White sail the clouds above, Clear as the morning; From these I chose me one For mine adorning.

CHILD speaks:

Flag of our Country, Thy heav’n-pure white, Like crystal in sunshine, It dazzles the sight!

FLAG speaks:

Yet there remains my blue, Jewel-besprinkled, Like to some dusky pool, Where the stars twinkled. Night doffed her misty veil When all were sleeping, Unclasped her starry crown, Gave to my keeping.

CHILD speaks:

Flag of our Country, Thy blue is more rare Than turquoise or gentian; ’Tis measureless air!

FLAG speaks:

Child, may my brilliant hues, Chosen from heaven, Serve as thy benison, Prove as thy leaven; Flaming may be thy heart, Loving and giving, Clear as the stars thy will, Snow-white thy living!