But this—the one that gave thee birth
A hundred years ago, O beauteous mother!
This mighty Century had a mightier brother,
Who from the watching earth
Passed but last year! Twin-born indeed were they—
For what are twelve months to the womb of time
Pregnant with ages?—Hand in hand they climbed
With clear, young eyes uplifted to the stars;
With great, strong souls that never stopped for bars,
Through storm and darkness up to glorious day!
Each knew the other’s need; each in his breast
The subtle tie of closest kin confessed;
Counted the other’s honor as his own;
Nor feared to sit upon a separate throne;
Nor loved each other less when—wondrous fate!—
One gave a Nation life, and one a State!