38

 38. Absolution  O FATHER, list a sinner's call! Fain would I hide from man my fall  But I must speak, or faint I cannot wear guilt's silent thrall:  Cleanse me, kind Saint!  "Sinner ne'er blunted yet sin's goad; Speed thee, my son, a safer road,  And sue His pardoning smile Who walk'd woe's depths, bearing man's load  Of guilt the while."  Yet raise a mitigating hand, And minister some potion bland,  Some present fever-stay! Lest one for whom His work was plann'd  Die from dismay.  "Look not to me no grace is mine; But I can lift the Mercy-sign.  This wouldst thou? Let it be! Kneel down, and take the word divine,  ABSOLVO TE."  Off Cape St. Vincent .  December 14, 1832.