The Black Swans 



Once again the herds were scattered 

 Far and wide across the pastures; 

 At their head a pale-faced stranger 

 Staunch of limb and lion-hearted, 

 From beyond the deep sea waters, 

 From the distant shores of England. 

 His the heritage of ages 

 From the hills of grim Glamorgan; 

 His the power that was descended 

 Through the Hereford generations, 

 From the wearing of the burdens 

 Of the yoke of heavy hauling, 

 From a life of toil and travail 

 In the service of his masters. 



Proud the bearing of this chieftain 

 As he armed them for the battle; 

 Wrapped them in red robes of courage, 

 Bound them by the ties of kindred 

 As of tribes by blood united; 

 Filled them with his dauntless spirit, 

 Taught them how to meet privations, 

 Taught them how to face the northers, 

 Winter's stress and summer's terrors; 

 Fought their fight through many perils, 

 Led them bravely through all dangers, 

 Grasped dominion of the ranges, 

 Held them in secured possession, 

 Brought the cattle to their kingdom. 



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