W. V~.

Gleamed on the jewel-fringed vast lion-
fells

That clothed his stature, ran in dusky play

Along the ponderous bronze that armed his
spear.

He fiercely scanned the East for signs of
dawn ;

Then shook his clenchéd hand above his
head,

And blazed with savage eyes and brow thrown
back

To front the awful Presence he addressed :

“Slay and make end; or take some mortal
form

That I may strive with Thee! Art Thou so
strong

And yet must smite me out of Thine Un-
seen?

Long centuries have passed since Thou didst
place

Thy mark upon me, lest at any time

Men finding me should slay me. I have
grown

84