When England of the quiet heart
Flung back the covenant of shame,
A dignity of high resolve
Upon her councils came.
Freedom's old standard, long laid by
Shook out its tattered folds once more;
And rank on rank with steady eyes
Her sons went out to war.
Unbroken in these ancient fields
A Sabbath calm dwells in the air,
And men along the shady road
Go quietly to prayer.
Vial of wrath has burst the seal
Thrones fall and dominations cease;
The silent face of England wears
The dignity of peace.
William Noel Hodgson
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-new-spirit/
