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 | The Poetical Works of Aubrey De Vere |  |
XXIII. EDIFICATION.
ON THE BAPTISM OF AN INFANT IN ST. PETER'S.
If this vast building had been reared for noughtBut as a temple where this solemn rite
Might be completed, still the hands that wrought
Its stately walls, the intellectual might
Of its great architect, the wealth that brought
Art's choicest treasures had been used aright,
Clothing with fitting dignity the thought
That on man's heart God's Spirit doth alight.
Yet it may happen that this helpless child
Should far surpass the wonder here achieved,
Leading a life of virtue, pure and mild,
By this world's shallow splendour undeceived,
May build in many hearts shrines undefiled
With bright examples from his life received.
| The Poetical Works of Aubrey De Vere | |