University of Virginia Library

XCV. THE PRIMATE AT THE STAKE, 1556.

Who that beholds his hand reluctant trace
Words which the meek Confessor's thoughts disclaim,
Drops not a tear of sorrow on the name,
Consign'd by one sad act to dire disgrace?
Who that beholds his willing hand embrace,
Ah! not unworthy now! the scorching flame,
Joys not to see that well-repented shame
Cleansed from the patient sufferer's soiled face?
Of those, my Country, who the pitying tear
Drop for thy renovated Church's Sire,
How many a heart, like his, had fail'd for fear!
How few perchance had dared, like his, respire,
To claim the meed of penitence sincere,
And faith that mark'd unmoved the circling fire!
 

Cranmer.