Anniversary of Independence.
1 We come with joy and gladness
To breathe our songs of praise,
Nor let one note of sadness
Be mingled in our lays;
For 'tis a hallowed story,
This theme of freedom's birth:
Our fathers' deeds of glory
Are echoed round the earth.
2 The sound is waxing stronger,
And thrones and nations hear--
Proud men shall rule no longer,
For God the Lord is near:
And he will crush oppression,
And raise the humble mind,
And give the earth's possession
Among the good and kind.
3 And then shall sink the mountains
Where pride and power are crowned,
And peace, like gentle fountains,
Shall shed its pureness round.
O God! we would adore thee,
And in thy shadow rest;
Our fathers bowed before thee,
And trusted and were blest.