Page:Talbot Mundy - Eye of Zeitoon.djvu/134



A priest, a statesman, and a soldier stood Hand in each other's hand, by ruin faced. Consulting to find succor if they could. Till soon the lesser ones themselves abased. Their sword and parchment on an altar laid In deep humility, the while the priest he prayed.

He prayed first for his church, that it might be Upholden and acknowledged and revered, And in its opal twilight men might see Salvation if in truth enough they feared, And if enough acknowledgment they gave To ritual, and rosary, and creed that save.

Then prayed he for the state, that it should wean Well-tutored counselors to do their part Full profit and prosperity to glean With dignity, although with contrite heart And wisdom that Tradition wisdom ranks. That church and state might stand and men give thanks.

Last prayed he for the soldier—longest, too. That all the honor and the aims of war Subserving him might carry wrath and rue Unto repentance, and in trembling awe The enemy at length should fault confess And yield, to crave a peace of righteousness.

Behind them stood a patriot unbowed, Not arrogant in gilt or goodly cloth, Nor mincing meek, and yet not poorly proud; With eyes afire that glittered not with wrath; Aware of evil hours, and undismayed Because he loved too well. He also prayed.