University of Virginia Library


431

2977.

[Truth, not ourselves, to justify]

I am not mad, most noble Festus; but, &c. —xxvi. 25.

Truth, not ourselves, to justify
We should with bold respect reply,
Nor silently the world permit
To tread the pearl beneath their feet,
Whene'er their ignorance reprove
The language pure of faith and love.
Freedom the cause of God requires
And wisdom meek His Spirit inspires;
Divinely taught we then express
His power, and truth, and soberness,
And that eternal Reason show
Our God in Christ reveal'd below.