Musings in Maoriland
The Emigrant's Welcome
The Emigrant's Welcome.
We greet you, stranger, to this land
Where slaves have never trod—
The breeze which sweeps our mountains
Is the breath of freedom's god.
If you've a hand to help us
In the work we've got to do
(The building of a nation grand)
Then, friend, we welcome you.
We greet you, stranger, if you have
A soul that can expand
To thank great Nature for the gifts
She strews with lavish hand.
In time's progressive vanguard,
We are marching staunch and true—
If you've a heart to join our ranks,
Then, friend, we welcome you.
We greet you, stranger, if you can
Turn up the maiden field,
And garner the prolific wealth
Our virgin soil will yield.
If you can search earth's bowels,
And her treasures bring to view,
Or fashion in the shop or forge,
Then, friend, we welcome you.
We greet you, stranger, if you have
A mind that's skilled to teach
A youthful State the clearest road
True happiness to reach.
The quarter-deck of our young ship
Is open to the crew;
If you've the talent to command,
Then, friend, we welcome you.
But, stranger, if you come to spurn
The gifts which God has sent,
To pass your days in indolence,
Or brood in discontent;
With soul and body chained in vice,
Unfit for honest gear,
Then let us tell you plainly, friend,
We do not want you here.
No wretched dens, nor crowded lanes,
Where squalid starvelings hide,
Disgrace our pure untainted plains—
The road to wealth is wide.
The blessings which great Heaven bestows
On man are here to spare,
Come join us, true and noble souls,
We offer you a share.