AS ONE WHO WAITETH

As one who waiteth for the signet ring

Of his dear sovereign, that his embassy

May have clear passport over land and sea,

And make the subject sacred as his king;

As waits the warrior for a pontiff's palm,

Upraised in blessing o'er his high emprise;

And bows his mailed forehead prayerful-wise,

Sinking his turbulency in deep calm:

So waited I for one seal to be set

Upon my full commission, for a sign

That should make impotent man's “I forget,”

And make God's “I remember” more divine:

Which should command at need the homage of

The armed squadrons of all loyal love.