Hail Mary

AMPHORA IV Vigil HE race of day is duly run, And men, the children of the sun, Turn them to sleep ; but I awake For Mary’s sake—for Mary’s sake. And while these eyes outwatch the stars My soul runs through the golden bars. O clusters that with warp and woof Make up Fate’s web, I stand aloof. The child of Mary stands apart Both from the terror and the dart. No fear, no evil can engage The knight of Mary’s pilgrimage. So in this still and solemn hour Of vigil we proclaim Thy power. Thy benediction, like a balm, Unite our ardour with our calm, And ere the black night pale to grey, Discover Thy diviner day ! Amen. T 48