1814.12
Wellington's Welcome[1]
D. A. O. Meara
The London Chronicle, CXVI (August 30, 1814), p. 235
Reprinted in The London Chronicle, CXVI (September 13, 1814), p. 282

Written in Commemoration of the Arrival of that Illustrious
Commander, by D.A.O. Meara.

Strike the harp, raise the voice, sing brave WELLINGTON'S
                                  glory,
    Recount the bright trophies he boldly has won;
Oh, long may his fame grace pure liberty's story,
    And canopied laurels shade—Great WELLINGTON.

How oft in the battle for freedom so glorious,
    Inspiring with ardor, appeared Valor's son;
How oft crown'd with conquest the Warrior victorious,
    Was hail'd by all nations—the Great WELLINGTON.

Spain and Portugal's plains when by myriads surrounded,
    When ambition its race most exultingly run;
He check'd the wild strides, while the Despot, astounded,
    Crouched low to the Hero—the Great WELLINGTON!

Yes, Erin! thine Isle claims the valiant protector
    Of liberty's blessings and liberty's throne;
The Shamrock and Laurel encircle thy victor,
    Both verdantly twine round your Great WELLINGTON!

Then strike the bold Harp, oh green Isle of the Ocean,
    Oh! welcome him Freedom, thy toils now are done;
Now hushed are the billows of war's rude commotion,
    And Europe, rejoicing, hails—Great WELLINGTON.

1. This is typical of the proliferation of verses that celebrated Wellington's heroism.