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"As Israel's tribes to Zion's holy hill,
Up to the courts the worshippers would come,
From where is Saugerties; where Plattekill,
Flatbush, Blue Mountain, Maiden, Kiskatom—
All daughters fair of mine. But passing fair
Those faithful ones who travelled leagues to
prayer.
Call others privileged? They had this much—
The Gospel undefiled in Holland Dutch.
"I see the pulpit high‡—an octagon.
Its pedestal, doophuisje,§ winding stair;
And room within for one, and one alone,
A canopy above, suspended there;
No spire, no bell; but 'neath the eaves a porch,
With trumpet hung to summon all to church:
Till innovation brought stoves, bell, and spire,
Floors, straight-backed pews, voorleser,** and a
Choir.” ................... ‡ In front of the pulpit was a socket for the hourglass.
§ Baptistery—an inclosed space in front of the pulpit.
** The clerk who gave out the hymns, etc., and led the singing.
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Old Albany