Henry Taylor

A Welcome

Once more we come with heart and hand,
 In warm and earnest greeting:
Once more we form in goodly band,
 A free and cordial meeting.

A meeting that has no design
 To threaten, coax, or wheedle;
To hail with glee a new "M. P."
 Or choose a parish beadle!

A meeting where no fierce debate
 Engenders "Chartist Riot;"
But leaves Queen, Parliament, and State,
 In true and loyal quiet.