VESPERS.
Reading edition
[The term Vespers is derived from Vesper, the star that appears toward sunset, the time appointed by ancient usage for the recital of the Evening Song.—Hierugia.]
Evening quiet overspreads the sky: Vesper rises clear and liquidly. Star of prayer! whose ray Brings spirit-whispers, Brings the saintly hour Of holy vespers. Not a bell, perchance, of prayerful cry, Yet the pious foot comes mindfully! O'er the flinty street, Or daisied meadow, Glides, from near or far, The Christian shadow! Evening quiet overspreads the soul: Restful rites the restless pulse control. Now the tuneful waves Of organ tremble; Now the tuneful prayers God's choir resemble! Words of ancient plaint, flung long ago From a kingly harp's melodious throe; Words to her, who oped Of Christ the vision, Gabriel words—still serve Their music-mission! Now the censer's aromatic breath Wreathes th' abode of One who smiles on death! Now the portals ope— Ah! dread appearing! Christian, veil thy glance, A God revering! —Changed to flesh and blood my daily food: Changed the bread and wine to flesh and blood! Yet, my God, forgive If reason falter: Faith, alone, sustains me At thine altar! Richard Storrs Willis.