The marriage of Edward, Prince of Wales, to Princess Alexandra of Denmark prompted several compositions to mark the occasion. Sullivan wrote three such pieces, all dedicated to the Princess. They were The Princess of Wales March on Danish Airs, The Royal Wedding - Grand March (also known as The Procession March) and this song which was first performed by Mrs. Harriet Lee at the Crystal Palace on 14th March 1863. The same music provided the setting for The White Plume, with words by J. P. Douglas, published by Weippert & Co., in 1873.

MIDI File [19K, 2' 47"]

Score [370K]

The shadows take their flight, The violet blooms, Gentle and pure and bright, A Fairy comes, Gentle and pure and bright, A Fairy comes. Fresh as the day, when dew Impearls her car, Waking a music new, To echo England through While bridal flow'rs we strew, Hail! Northern star. Our gallant mariners tell Of lands they know, Where hue of Indian shell Tinges the snow, Where hue of Indian shell Tinges the snow.

Where nights, than our June days
More brilliant are-
And her fair face displays
To Britain's loyal gaze,
That blush, those meteor rays.
Bright Northern Star!

Blessings on that fair face!
Safe on the shore
Of her home-dwelling place,
Stranger no more.
Love from her household shrine,
Keep sorrow far.
May, for her, hawthorn twine,
June, bring sweet eglantine,
Autumn the golden vine,
Dear Northern Star!

Blessings on that fair face!
Safe on the shore -
Dear Northern Star!

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