Song: Boys of the Southern Cross

Boys of the Southern Cross was a popular song sung by New Zealand soldiers during the South African War.

Lyrics

We've heard about your trouble, Tom, 
In rousting out the Boer; 
You shall not fight out there alone 
Amid the cannon's roar, 
The blood that stirred our noble sires 
To build up England's Fame, 
Re-kindles in Colonial sons 
Their prestige to maintain. For-

We are the boys of the Southern Cross 
Our stars shine on our flags- 
Emblazoned with the Union Jack, 
To show we're Empire lads.

From storm-torn hills where tussocks wave, 
And dells where tree-ferns grow; 
From snow-capp'd peaks, and rock-bound coast, 
We come,-to strike the blow. 
Rest, British sons, till South-cross boys 
Canadian brothers meet- 
Then on we'll press, an Empire's strength, 
And make the foe retreat. For-

Chorus

If seditious traitors cross our path 
And parley for the Vaal, 
We'll hang them up at Kruger's-dorp- 
Thus settle matters well. 
We'll gather now the camp fire round, 
And make the billy sing; 
Be ready, boys, at bugle's call 
To fight for stars and Queen. For-

Chorus

With three cheers for the Empire loud; 
And for the Queen,-Hurray! 
We'll stick tight in our saddles, boys, 
To drive the foe away; 
When once again our land shall loom 
And Kruger is no more, 
Welcome we our native home- 
And fair New Zealand's shore. For-

Chorus