TYRTÆUS.

’Twas when the land was struggling to break free From Slavery’s fetter and provincial ban, Whilst a great people dreaded liberty,— That the dire conflict of thine age began. Thy voice rang clear o’er selfish sect and clan; Nor politician’s, priest’s, nor tradesman’s plea Did aught avail to quench, but more to fan The flame that must consume all slavery,— The serf then franchised and proclaimed a man. Long wast thou heard amid the scoff and scorn Of voices potent in thy city dear; Steadfast didst face the storm, with heart of cheer, And prove thyself the freeman nobly born, Preacher of righteousness, of saints the peer.