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Song of the Union by A PENNSYLVANIAN . . .
   
Complete Explanation:
A sheet music cover for a song by John M. Crosland, dedicated to President Buchanan. The cover is illustrated with an array of emblems, many of them symbolizing threats to the integrity of the Union.

A bust of George Washington dominates the composition, appearing above in an aureole of stars. Above him is an eagle clutching an olive branch and arrows, and below a streamer with his words, "I shall carry with me to my grave a strong incitement to unceasing vows, that your Union may be perpetual." Two hands reach out to push back the dark clouds encroaching from both sides.

Lightning flashes from the clouds, toppling the arch of the Union on the left, and tormenting an eagle on the right. Beneath the arch are a plough, cornucopia, flag, and anchor. The eagle loses his grip on his olive branch and lets fall a streamer "E Pluribus Unum."

At the bottom two hands threaten the Capitol with burning torches. A foot (left) treads on the Constitution, and another (right) is about to crush the "Union."

On the left is a view of the Bunker Hill Monument in Boston, on the right Robert Mills's design for the Washington Monument.

On the last page of the sheet music appears the following notice:

"The Author has in preparation a Plate of larger size (18 x 24 inches,) presenting in still bolder contrast the prosperity of "Our Union As It Is," and the certain results of an attempt at disunion. This large Edition will be embellished with the portraits of our Presidents, and Coat of Arms of the several States, and in style and execution well suited to the Parlor and Drawing Room, . . . ."


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