*
DARKNESS IS THINNING.
Darkness is thinning; shadows are retreating;
Morning and light are coming in their beauty;
Suppliant seek we, with an earnest outcry.
God the Almighty!
So that our Master, having mercy on us.
May repel languor, may bestow salvation.
Granting us, Father, of thy loving-kindness
Glory hereafter!
This, of his mercy, ever blessèd Godhead,
Father, and Son, and Holy Spirit, give us,—
Whom through the wide world celebrate forever
Blessing and glory!
From the Latin of ST. GREGORY THE GREAT.
Translation of JOHN MASON NEALE.
*
PRAISE.
To write a verse or two is all the praise
That I can raise;
Mend my estate in any wayes,
Thou shalt have more.
I go to church; help me to wings, and I
Will thither flie;
Or, if I mount unto the skie,
I will do more.
Man is all weaknesse: there is no such thing
As Prince or King:
His arm is short; yet with a sling
He may do more.
A herb destilled, and drunk, may dwell next doore,
On the same floore,