XIV

For ever hallowed be this morning fair,

Blest be the unconscious shore on which ye tread,

And blest the silver Cross, which ye, instead

Of martial banner, in procession bear;

The Cross preceding Him who floats in air,

The pictured Saviour!— By Augustin led,

They come — and onward travel without dread,

Chanting in barbarous ears a tuneful prayer —

Sung for themselves, and those whom they would free!

Rich conquest waits them:— the tempestuous sea

Of Ignorance, that ran so rough and high

And heeded not the voice of clashing swords,

These good men humble by a few bare words,

And calm with fear of God's divinity.