There is a bondage which is worse to bear...

There is a bondage which is worse to bear

Than his who breathes, by roof, and floor, and wall,

Pent in, a Tyrant's solitary Thrall:

‘ Tis his who walks about in the open air,

One of a Nation who, henceforth, must wear

Their fetters in their Souls. For who could be,

Who, even the best, in such condition, free

From self-reproach, reproach which he must share

With Human Nature? Never be it ours

To see the Sun how brightly it will shine,

And know that noble Feelings, manly Powers,

Instead of gathering strength must droop and pine,

And Earth with all her pleasant fruits and flowers

Fade, and participate in Man's decline.