KEEN as the blasts from BULAK’s* desert blow;

High-temper’d as the souls of mighty kings;

Bright as the forky fires of light’ning glow,

When DEATH’s dread ANGEL rides upon their wings.

 

Such is this sword, O thou, whose hasty hand

Is guided only by despotic will,

Learn that from GOD was given this high command:

‘No blood UNJUSTLY shalt thou dare to spill.’

 

But to repel the force of lawless might,

To aid the INNOCENT, their wrongs redress,

Protect the JUST, defend thy country’s right:

For these, the BRAVE shall combat with success.

 

Wield then this vengeful blade.—By HEAVEN’s decree

DEATH’s SABLE ANGEL* shall give place to thee.