History and Tradition are explored in vain And the noblest names of Antiquity Born the benefactor of mankind, He was equally endowed with all the qualities 11 Appropriate to his illustrious career. Nature made him great And (Heaven directed) He made himself virtuous. Called by his country to the defence of her soil He led to the field Her patriot Armies; And, displaying in rapid and brilliant succession Of consummate prudence And heroic valor, He triumphed in Arms Over the most powerful Nation of Modern Europe; After a short repose From the tumultuous vicissitudes Of sanguinary War, The commanding energies of Washington To a new career of glory and usefulness: Was spontaneously placed, by the gratitude of the Nation, With the powers of supreme Magistracy, And in this exalted and arduous Station, The destinies of Washington Were now completed. Having passed the meridian of a devoted life, Having founded on the pillars of National Independence The splendid fabric Of a great Republic, And having firmly established The Empire of the West, He solemnly deposited on the Altar of his Country His laurels and his sword; And retired to the shades A spectacle so new and so sublime Resounded to the remotest regions of the Earth. Magnanimous in youth; Glorious through life; Great in death: His highest Ambition the happiness of mankind; The conquest of himself |