The Liberty of the Press

When Britain first at heaven's command, Arose from out the asure main, This was the charter of the land, And guardian angels sung this strain, Ye Britons hark, if bless'd you'd be, See that your guardian press be free.

Though tyrants oft the scepter sway'd, In Britain's Isle, a people free, In spite of placemen still assay'd, To keep their thoughts and printing free. Then Britons join'd their press to free, Their press secur'd their liberty.

Its dating voice ravish'd each ear, To distant lands its fame was known, Reason and truth advancing near, Soon hurl'd a tyrant from his throne. Then Britons join'd their press to free, Their press secur'd their liberty.

Though Burke and Reeves each sinew strain, Their base false doctrines to support, 'Gainst falsehood we'll truth's cause maintain, Vict'ry awaits the grand effort. Then zealous be your press to free, And you'll secure your liberty,

Let's then unite with heart and hand, Falshood already shrinks with fear, With truth attack the hireling band, When reason shines they'll disappear. Then Britons join your press to free, And you'll preserve your liberty.