Enough it was for the hermit's need!

He rose, like one from a burden freed.

"Thank God!" he said; "if indeed He sees

My soul as worthy and white as these!

And great the mercy He doth bestow,

That I should His hidden servants know!"

A sudden flash, as of heavenly light,

Then shone within him, and all was bright;

And in a moment were things made clear

Had vexed him many a weary year!

For he, who had thought on earth to view

God's people only a scattered few,

Saw now, in spirit, an army great

Of hidden servants who on Him wait.

No saintly legends their names disclose,

And no man living their number knows,

Nor can their service and place declare.

The hidden servants are everywhere!

And some are hated, despised, alone;

And some to even themselves unknown.

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