AFTER A RETREAT
Reading edition
By Robert Hugh Benson
What hast thou learnt to-day? Hast thou sounded awful mysteries, Hast pierced the veiléd skies, Climbed to the feet of God, Trodden where saints have trod, Fathomed the heights above? Nay, This only have I learnt, that God is love. What hast thou heard to-day? Hast heard the Angel-trumpets cry, And rippling harps reply; Heard from the Throne of flame Whence God incarnate came Some thund’rous message roll? Nay, This have I heard, His voice within my soul.
What hast thou felt to-day? The pinions of the Angel-guide That standeth at thy side In rapturous ardours beat, Glowing, from head to feet, In ecstasy divine? Nay, This only have I felt, Christ’s hand in mine.