(1909) So , not from blustering wind and darkening cloud , Nor from afar , as from some distant sphere , But from the soil , a tribute of the deep , Blooms the fair flower of dear Holland ' s fate .While April ' s blossoms all the fields enshroud , And beauty ' s vernal wreath is woven here , Wakes smiling , as from some mysterious sleep , An Orange Blossom , - fairest flower ' s mate ! ' T is not in some far constellation ' s blaze That men must seek the guerdon of their hopes , But in the land itself , in home - born strength , The flower and fruitage of a fertile past .Each people , in its God - appointed ways , Moves on its upward or its downward slopes Propelled by aspirations which at length Shape the decrees by which its fate is cast .