John Mayne

To the Army and Navy Returning from the War

Gallant troops from Waterloo, 
Wellington’s companions true, 
All to whom our thanks are due, 
	For battles bravely won: 
Glory gain’d and peace restor’d, 
Welcome home to sheathe the sword, 
Bless your king, and praise the Lord, 
	For wonders he hath done!

When the French, a fiend-like band, 
Threaten’d to despoil the land; 
When their Chief, with fiery brand, 
	Was Europe’s deadly foe; 
Britain, with her flag unfurl’d, 
From his throne the Usurper hurl’d! 
Britain sav’d a falling world, 
	And laid the Tyrant low!

Sailors of great Nelson’s crew, 
Wealth and fame we owe to you; 
	Trafalgar, and Waterloo, 
	The war with glory crown’d! 
See, brave heroes of the Nile, 
Commerce re-illumes our isle; 
Providence still deigns to smile, 
	And gladdens all around!

Shou’d the Foemen, bold again, 
Dare us to the battle plain, 
Heart and hand, with might and main, 
	We’ll arm by land and sea. 
Waterloo and Trafalgar, 
In our minds a leading star, 
Shall guide our fleets and hosts afar 
	To glorious victory!

Gallant troops from Waterloo, 
Sailors of great Nelson’s crew, 
All who wou’d, like Britons true, 
	The race of glory run: 
Hail your Prince with one accord, 
Bless the King and praise the Lord, 
Ever be His name ador’d 
	For wonders he hath done!