The Minstrel Boy

The Minstrel Boy to the war is gone

In the ranks of death you will find him

His father's sword he hath girded on

And his wild harp slung behind him

Land of Song! said the warrior bard

Tho' all the world betrays thee

One sword, at least, they rights shall guard

One faithful harp shall praise thee!

The Minstrel fell! But the foeman's chain

Could not bring that proud soul under

The harp he lov'd ne'er spoke again

For he tore its chords asunder

And said "No chains shall sully thee

Thou soul of love and brav'ry!

Thy songs were made for the pure and free,

They shall never sound in slavery!