Page:The Works of J. W. von Goethe, Volume 9.djvu/407

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POEMS OF GOETHE
373

UNA PŒNITENTIA.

(Once named Margaret, pressing near them.)

O radiance-spreading One,
Who equalled art by none,
In mercy view mine ecstasy!
For he whom erst I loved,
No more by sorrow proved,
Returns at length to me!

BEATIFIED CHILDREN.

(Approaching as they hover round.)

He now in strength of limb
Far doth outweigh us,
And as we tended him,
So will repay us.
Early removed were we
Far from life's story;
Trained now himself, will he
Train us in glory.

THE PENITENT, once named Margaret.

Linked with the noble band of spirits,
Scarce can the new one feel or see
The radiant life he now inherits,
So like that holy band is he.
See how he bursts each bond material,
And parts the olden veil at length,—
In vesture clad in grace ethereal,
Comes in the glow of youthful strength.
Oh, let me guide his steps victorious,
While dazzled by the new-born light.

MATER GLORIOSA.

Come! raise thyself to spheres more glorious,
He'll follow when thou meetest his sight.