This is the oldest dated copy I can find. Note: there are some differences, compared to the version attributed to Blanchard & Russell: the lack of repeats; one additional verse, and one less; and a couple of words. From Puppet Show, No. 10, London: May 20, 1848, page 84: THE WARNING-BELL. [no author is given] I. The world is on the move, Look about! There is much we may improve, Never doubt; And for all who understand, A Warning-Bell at hand May be heard throughout the land, Ringing out. II. The shadows that are found We may scorn, In the sunny rays around They are born; And as dawn succeeds to night, So the rays of Freedom’s light Turn the darkness of our sight Into morn! III. Though gloomy hearts despond At the sky, There’s a sun to shine beyond By-and-bye. Ere the vessel that we urge Shall beneath the surface merge, A beacon on the verge Shall be nigh. IV. Step by step the longest march Can be done; Single stones will form an arch, One by one; And with union what we will Can be all accomplished still— Drops of water turn a mill— Singly, none! V. Brag and bluster float as froth O’er the wave; Gory treason, worse than both, Fools may rave; But the honest hands that link With the solemn heads that think, And for pikes use—pen and ink. Are the brave! VI. Let us onward then for Right, Nothing more; And let Justice be the might We adore. Build no hopes upon the sand, For a People hand-in-hand Can make this a better land Than before.
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