Pelekane (England) - by Lili`uokalani

 
Nani wale ho`i ku`u `ike ana
Kêlâ `âina kamaha`o
`Aina kaulana i ka nani
Ka ikaika me ka hanohano
 
 
Hui:
I laila ku`u `upu ku`u li`a
Ka mana`o nui e waiho a`e nei
O ka `ike lihi aku ia Pelekane
A he nani ia `ae ua hiki no
 
 
Kuko no loko a ho`okô
E `ike i ka pua i ka wêkiu
Honi ka makani o laila
I ka hane welelau i ku`u papâlina

 

It was wonderful to see
That marvelous country
Land famed for its beauty
It's strength and majesty
 
 
Chorus:
Fond recollections and admiration
Remains ever with me
I have caught a glimpse of England
Tales of its beauty are indeed true
 
 
My desire to see was fulfilled
I have seen the topmost blossom
I have inhaled the air there
And felt the breeze brush my cheek

 

Source: Hula Records "Bill Kaiwa Sings at Maunalahilahi " - Composed by Crown Princess Lili`uokalani in 1887, after she and Queen Kapi`olani went to England for the Jubilee of Queen Victoria. On this occasion, Queen Kapi`olani wore a parure of catseye shells and a gown embroidered with blue peacock feathers. In the 2nd verse, Lili`uokalani describes the British Empress as the topmost blossom.