University of Virginia Library


62

[I have a thought that fain would speak]

I have a thought that fain would speak
And tell thy praise, O Lord;
But, oh, my faltering lips are weak,
And tremble at the word.
Let those that have not broke thy laws
Aspire to speak thy praise;
These falling tears are all the voice
That I may dare to raise.
Yet the fond mercy of our God
Outgoes our faithless thought;
He comes to meet us on the road,
Nor lets Himself be sought.
Father, to my repentant heart
Thy sheltering wing extend;
Henceforward let me not depart,
Henceforth no more offend.
April 1846.