Iii

Then we stood where we could see Every band, And the speaker’s stand. And Bryan took the platform. And he was introduced. And he lifted his hand And cast a new spell. Progressive silence fell In Springfield, In Illinois, Around the world. Then we heard these glacial boulders across the prairie rolled: “The people have a right to make their own mistakes.... You shall not crucify mankind Upon a cross of gold.”

And everybody heard him-- In the streets and State House yard. And everybody heard him In Springfield, In Illinois, Around and around and around the world, That danced upon its axis And like a darling broncho whirled.