While I relate my story, Americans give ear Of Britain's fading glory, you presently shall hear I'll give a true relation, attend to what I say Concerning the taxation of North America The cruel lords of Britain, who glory in their shame The project they have hit on they joyfully proclaim 'Tis what they're striving after our rights to take away And rob us of our charter in North America There are two mighty speakers who rule in Parliament Who ever have been seeking some mischief to invent 'Twas North, and Bute his father, the horrid plan did lay A mighty tax to gather in North America There is a wealthy people who sojourn in that land Their churches all with steeples most delicately stand Their houses like the gilly, are painted red and gay They flourish like the lily in North America O King, you've heard the sequel of what we now subscribe Is it not just and equal to tax this wealthy tribe The question being asked, his majesty did say My subjects shall be taxed in North America Invested with a warrant, my publicans shall go The tenth of all their current they surely shall bestow If they indulge rebellion, or from my precepts stray I'll send my war battalion to North America The laws I have enacted, I never will revoke Although they are neglected my fury to provoke I will forbear to flatter, I'll rule the mighty sway I'll take away the charter from North America Our fathers were distressed, while in their native land By tyrants were oppressed, as we do understand For freedom and religion they were resolved to stray And trace the desert regions of North America We are their bold descendants, for liberty we'll fight The claim to independence we challenge as our right 'Tis what kind Heaven gave us, who can it take away O, Heaven, sure will save us in North America
background: song history and historical background [Ballad of America]