Classic Poem

To the Hand of a Living Catholic Author

HAIL , sacred Force!
Hail, energy sublime!
Fountain of present deeds,
And manifold effects in future time!

Through thee have sped
Forth on their blazing way
Conceptions fiery-wing'd,
That shall the destinies of ages sway!

Through thee this Isle,
So wrapt in Satan's chain,
A moment seem'd as if
About to own her early Faith again;

A moment ey'd
With a half-wistful gaze,
As she in beauty pass'd,
The vision of the Church of ancient days.

Symbol august!
Here on my bended knee,
I venerate the truth
And multitudinous grace that speaks in thee.

Thou, drawing back
The curtains of the night,
First on this guilty soul,
Shut up in heresy, didst open light.

Through thee on her
Eternal morning rose;
O, how with all her powers
Can she enough repay the debt she owes!English