University of Virginia Library

SONNET.

ANGEL of mercy! whose terrestrial task
Is to set free the clay-encumber'd soul,
O when firm faith is panting for the goal,
And longs in truth's unclouded sun to bask,
Tir'd of the world, a vain tumultuous mask!
Teach me with thee to soar, above the pole,
Safe from degrading terror's dark controul,
And glad to gain, what I devoutly ask!

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With just intelligence of good, and ill,
With fond attachment to a Saviour's law,
Teach me the pangs of parting life to still!
Let me, with filial love and tender awe,
The solemn mandate of my God fulfill,
True to his word! and zealous for his will!
Manfredi.