38. Absolution
|
{83}
O FATHER, list a sinner's call! |
| Fain would I hide from man my fall— |
| But I must speak, or faint— |
| I cannot wear guilt's silent thrall: |
| Cleanse me, kind Saint! |
"Sinner ne'er blunted yet sin's goad; |
| Speed thee, my son, a safer road, |
| And sue His pardoning smile |
| Who walk'd woe's depths, bearing man's load |
| Of guilt the while." |
Yet raise a mitigating hand, |
| And minister some potion bland, |
| Some present fever-stay! |
| Lest one for whom His work was plann'd |
| Die from dismay. {84} |
"Look not to me—no grace is mine; |
| But I can lift the Mercy-sign. |
| This wouldst thou? Let it be! |
| Kneel down, and take the word divine, |
| ABSOLVO TE." |
Off Cape St. Vincent.
December 14, 1832. |