But hark! above the beating of the storm

Peals on the startled ear the fire-alarm!

Yon gloomy heaven’s aflame with sudden light;

And heart-beats quicken with a strange affright.

From tranquil slumber springs, at duty’s call,

The ready friend no danger can appall;

Fierce for the conflict, sturdy, true, and brave,

He hurries forth to battle and to save.

[Pg 62]

From yonder dwelling fiercely shooting out,

Devouring all they coil themselves about,

The flaming furies, mounting high and higher,

Wrap the frail structure in a cloak of fire.

Strong arms are battling with the stubborn foe,

In vain attempts their power to overthrow;

With mocking glee they revel with their prey,

Defying human skill to check their way.

And see! far up above the flames’ hot breath,

Something that’s human waits a horrid death:

A little child, with waving golden hair,

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