In his people's heart his Lord's command.

Holding Hells and Heavens in either hand

Comes the priest and comes the wild-eyed prophet,

Tells the people of some happier land,

Terrifies them with a burning Tophet;

Gives them creeds for bread

And warm roof o'erhead,

Gives for life's delight

Passports to the kingdom, spirit-bright.

And the people groaning everywhere

Hearken gladly to the wondrous story,

[38]

How beyond this life of toil and care

They shall lead a life of endless glory:

Where beyond the dim

Earth-mists Seraphim,

Love-illumined, wait—

Hierarchies of angels at heaven's gate.

Let them suffer while they live below,

Bear in silence weariness and pain;

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