(Preface) This poem was written for Richard M. Nixon in a letter to Maryland Congressman Gude in October 1973:

Dear Congressman Gude,

Many Americans have lost faith in their government in the last few years, My own patriotism took a beating when I served as an Army sergeant during the Vietnam War's early years.  It is even more difficult to be proud of America today.

Richard M. Nixon has declared civil war against his own country. Already he has stolen morality, faith, and freedom.  Will we permit him to steal justice too?  Ours is a nation of peoples, not of one man.  A nation's soul is stolen only when its people do not stop the thief.  

The Office of the President must not be held by a thief in the night!  Will you vote for our country?  will you help to separate corruption from leadership?  Will you please impeach Richard Nixon before he steals the power to do that also?

-- The Ship of State --

An office in the Ship of State
Determines course and sets its fate.
What say have members of the crew,
The passengers, and silent few,
When the Captain, in attempt to wreak,
Has built a fire upon the deck.

                      -- Gregory R. Molenaar
                    23 October 1973

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