The Reformer

Erect and dauntless, we have seen thee stand 
     Where loudest rang the clarion of Reform,
     In the long conflict’s gloomiest thunder-storm,—
One of a Hope Forlorn to save a land:
Serene, sublime, unconquerably grand,
     Waging God's battle on the alien swarm 
     Of the oppressor, with truth's fiery brand 
Flashing with terrible beauty in thy hand!
Bayard of Freedom's matchless knights, a crowned
     Soul "without fear, without reproach," kept pure
Where even the altar and its "holy ground"
     Reeked with the stench of slavery's bloody sewer!
No rest, no rage impaired thy action great:
Patient as perfect faith, invincible as fate!