The Side Windows: Ambrose

To thee an eye to trace out the third Heaven
In holy writ, and see the mercy-throne, —
A brother's love, — a poet's lyre was given,
But yet o'er all thy gifts the Pastor shone,
To God's high altar bound, no more thine own.

I see thee stand before the injur'd shrine,
While Theodosius to thy stern decree
Falls down, and owns the keys and power divine :
For kings that fain her nursing-sires would be,
To the Eternal Bride must bow the knee.

I see thee thron'd upon the Teacher's seat, —
And 'mid the crowd a silent wand'rer steal :
In his sad breast, while sitting at thy feet,
The Father doth th' eternal Son reveal,
And Austin from thy hands receives the Spirit's seal.