130
BIRTHDAY ODE.
The mightiest soul put mortal raiment on 500
That came forth singing ever in man's ears
Of all souls with us, and through all these years
Rings yet the lordliest, waxen yet more strong,
That on our souls hath shed itself in song,
Poured forth itself like rain
On souls like springing grain
That with its procreant beams and showers were fed
For living wine and sacramental bread;
Given all itself as air gives life and light,
Utterly, as of right; 510
The goodliest gift our age hath given, to be
Ours, while the sun gives glory to the sea.
Our Father and Master and Lord, ep. 13
Who hast thy song for sword,
For staff thy spirit, and our hearts for throne:
