The Banner of England
- Shapcott Wensley -
It comes from the misty ages,
The banner of England’s might,
The blood-red cross of the brave St. George,
That burns on a field of white!
It speaks of the deathless heroes,
On fame’s bright page inscrolled,
And bids great England ne’er forget
The glorious deeds of old!
O’er many a cloud of battle,
The banner has floated wide,
It shone like a star o’er the valiant hearts,
That dashed the Armada’s pride!
For ever amid the thunders,
The sailor could do or die,
While tongues of flame leaped forth below,
And the flag of St. George was high!
O ne’er may the flag beloved,
Unfurl in a strife unblest,
But ever give strength to the righteous arm,
And hope to the hearts oppressed!
It says through the passing ages:
“Be brave if your cause be right!
Like the soldier saint whose cross of red,
Still burns on your banner white!”
Great nation, whose empire splendour
Has dazzled a wondering world,
May the flag that floats o’er thy wide domains
Belong to all winds unfurled.
Three crosses in concord blended,
The banner of Britain’s might,
But the central gem of the ensign fair
Is the cross of the dauntless knight!
