To the suggestions of an evil spirit,

That even now is there,

Making the foul seem fair,

And selfishness itself a virtue and a merit!

A ROOM IN THE FARM-HOUSE.

GOTTLIEB.

Ir is decided! For many days,
And nights as many, we have had
A nameless terror in our breast,
Making us timid, and afraid

Of God, and his mysterious ways!

We have been sorrowful and sad;

Much have we suffered, much have prayed

That he would lead us as is best,

And show us what his will required.

It is decided; and we give

Our child, O Prince, that you may live!

URSULA.

It is of God. He has inspired

This purpose in her; and through pain, Out of a world of sin and woe,

He takes her to himself again.

The mother's heart resists no longer;
With the Angel of the Lord in vain
It wrestled, for he was the stronger.

GOTTLIEB.

As Abraham offered long ago

His son unto the Lord, and even

The Everlasting Father in heaven

Gave his, as a lamb unto the slaughter, So do I offer up my daughter!

When we are gone from here, and on our way

Are journeying to Salerno, you will not,

By word or deed, endeavor to dissuade me And turn me from my purpose; but remember That as a pilgrim to the Holy City

Walks unmolested, and with thoughts of pardon