Of thunders at my heels, and lit up heaven,
And earth, and sea, with one quick lamp, and crown'd
The mountains with a momentary gold.
Then cover'd them with blackness. Then I glanced
Upon the mighty city in her sleep,
Pierced all her mysteries with one swift look,
Then bade my thunders shout. The city trembled;
And, charm'd with the sublime outcry, I paus'd
And listen'd. Yet had I to rise and learn
A loftier lesson. I was lifted high
Into the heavens, and there became a star,
And on my new-form'd orb two angels sat.
The one thus spoke: ^ spirit, young and pure!
Say, wilt thou be my shrine? I am of old.
The first of all things, and of all the greatest;
I am the Sovereign Majesty to whom
The universe is given; though for awhile
I war with rebels strong; my name is Truth.
I am the Spirit of wisdom, love, and power,
And come to claim thee; and if thou obey
My guiding, I will give thee thy desire,
Even eternal life.' He ceas'd, and then
The second angel spoke. ' Ask not, soul!
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