'T is true: you ask, and I must confess.

But keep my secret, good Father, pray;

Or my life will not be safe for a day!

Alas, I have led a life of crime!

I 've been an evil man in my time.

I was a robber—I think you know—

Till little more than a year ago;

One of a desperate, murderous band,

A curse and terror to all the land!"

The hermit's head sank down on his breast;

His trembling hands to his eyes he pressed.

"Has God rejected me?" then he moaned:

"Are all my service and love disowned?

Have I been blind, and my soul deceived?"

The other, seeing the old man grieved,

Said: "Father, why do you care so much

For one not worthy your robe to touch?

The Lord is gracious, and if He will,

He can forgive and save me still.

And as for my wicked life, 't is I,

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