It comes from the misty ages,The banner of England's might,The bloodred cross of the brave St.George,That burns on a field of white!
It speaks of the deathless heroes On fame's bright page inscrolled,And bids great England ne'er forget The glorious deeds of old!
O'er many a cloud of battle The banner has floated wide;It shone like a star o'er the valiant hearts That dashed the Armada's pride!
For ever amid the thunders The sailor could do or die,While tongues of flame leaped forth below,And the flag of St.George was high!
O ne'er may the flag beloved Unfurl in a strife unblest,But ever give strength to the righteous arm,And hope to the hearts oppressed!
It says to the passing ages:
Like the soldier saint whose cross of red Still burns on your banner white!"
Great race,whose empire of splendour Has dazzled the wondering world!
May the flag that floats o'er thy wide domains Be long to all winds unfurled!
Three crosses in concord blended,The banner of Britain's might!
But the central gem of the ensign fair Is the cross of the dauntless Knight!