Poems written in jail

by Louis Riel

I must
Speak of God in whom
I trust.
In him I have room
To hope.
The rope
Threatens my life; but
Thank God, I fear not.

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There is a very fine perfume
Of truth, in the church of England!
The Blessed Virgin, I presume,
Occupies therein, a great Stand.
She is honor'd as the mother
Of Jesus Christ! She is the Queen
Whose sweet prayers have always been
Successfull near God the Father.
Louis "David" Riel

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Prophet of the new world, I
Do the work of the Most High.
I assert it with no pride.
I live in humility.
Is there any one to side
With me? Yes. Sincerity
Will gather up its recruits.
And we will soon taste its fruits.
Louis "David" Riel

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The morning dew, with silver drops,
Never shines as much as the word
Of the Preacher who developed
The blessed teachings of the Lord.
———
Happy is the congregation
Which obeys, with true devotion,
The sermons of its Minister,
For the Sake of Christ, the Master!
Louis "David" Riel