A Doubt

I know not how the right may be: —
But I give thanks whene'er I see
Down in the green slopes of the West
Old Glastonbury's towered crest.

I know not how the right may be: —
But I have oft had joy to see
By play of chance my road beside
The Cross on which our Saviour died.

I know not how the right may be: —
But I loved once a tall elm-tree,
Because between its boughs on high
That Cross was opened on the sky.

I know not how the right may be: —
But I have shed strange tears to see,
Passing an unknown town at night,
In some warm chamber full of light,
A Mother and two Children fair,
Kneeling with lifted hands at prayer.

I know not how it is — my boast
Of Reason seems to dwindle down;
And my mind seems down-argued most
By forced conclusions not her own.

I know not how it is — unless
Weakness and strength are near allied;
And joys which most the spirit bless
Are furthest off from earthly pride.