I.—(Exoteric.)
On the fair borders of a mighty stream1
Rises the noblest City of our land ;2
Its palaces, and docks, and streets command3
Our wondering awe, and set our minds to dream4
What agency could thus have called to life5
So much that’s beautiful, and great, and high.6
Viewed from a lofty point, how free from strife7
Appear its dwellings outlined on the sky,8
Just veiled by misty haze which serves to hide9
Their cracks and wrinkles from a searching eye :10
As men of old who kept a fair outside11
Were halo-crowned, their powers to magnify.12
Great City ! offspring of a People’s will !13
Got by their needs, and fostered by their skill
!14