The Three Angels
Reading edition
The Three Angels
Heav’n vex’d in heaven heard the World
And all the grief thereof, and sent
The angel Strength. Swift he unfurl’d
His wings and flasht his sword and went:
But still the cry of Earth rang to the firmament.
Then gentle Love, most loved in heaven,
Heav’n sent to Earth. His large eyes shone,
Upcast with glory from God given,
And darkening downward from the Throne
He fell: nor bated yet the far terrestrial moan.
Then all the host of heav’n, amazed,
Cried, ‘Next let Wisdom go and prove
Himself and conquer.’ But he raised
His face and answer’d, ‘Heav’n above,
Like them, alone I fail; send with me Strength and Love.’
1882.
APOLOGUES