On Reading a Proclamation for Public Prayer.

South Carolinian.

Oh! terrible, this prayer in the market-place, These advertised humilities--decreed By proclamation, that we may be freed, And mercy find for once, and saving grace, Even while we forfeit all that made the race Worthy of Heavenly favor--and profess Our faith and homage only through duress, And dread of danger which we dare not face.

All working that's done worthily is prayer-- And honest thought is prayer--the wish, the will To mend our ways, maintain our virtues still, And, losing life, still keep our bosoms fair In sight of God--with whom humility And patient working can alone make free.