The Crimson Flag of Derry

A band of youthful heroes,
Within our Maiden Walls,
Once dar'd a tyrant’s mandates,
As history recalls;
Despising threats and shackles,
That would have seal'd their woes,
They thundered forth defiance
Against insulting foes.
Chorus:
Huzza, then, for the Crimson Flag,
That floated brisk and gay!
And wav'd defiance to the foes
Huzza! Huzza! Huzza!

2. A monarch once in martial mood
Our walls in state approach'd
Demanding entrance but he found
His presence had encroach'd ;
A burst repugnant to his ears
Saluted from within;
He wheel'd about, and fled through fear,
In spite of "shame or sin."
Chorus:

3. Away went James with whip and spur,
And foremost drove his steed,
Nor look'd behind but wistfully
Mountgavelin sought with speed;
To Dublin next he sped his way,
And sorely did he rue,
To Derry e'er he set his face,
Its "rebels to subdue."
Chorus:

4. A ruthless force surrounded had our city
Doom'd they thought;
But soon they found their false hopes
Had gained less than they sought;
A corps of dauntless heros
Our sires in days of yore
Rush'd boldly out upon the foe,
And scorned the cannon's roar.
Chorus:

5. When gallant Browning led the van
Each pulse beat high with praise,
Rever’d the power that rul'd their fate
Their drooping hearts to raise;
Whilst famine, fever, raged within,
The savage hordes around
Foil'd took a hasty moonlight flight,
And left the tented ground.
Chorus:

6. Let tyrants rule with infamy,
And serfs and slaves trepan,
Religion, life and liberty
Are dear to every man;
Victoria reigns supreme with us
Let others dare say nay,
Who snarl and puff or proudly boast
Britiannia bears the sway.
Chorus:

The Crimson Flag of Derry

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