Most holy "Christ on earth," I Catherine, Thy poor unworthy daughter, have desired To see thee strong. The hungry sheep await Thy coming. Yea, the heavenly Bride, profaned In mystic members, languishes alone. They write, these men who threaten thee with death, As if afar some holy seer perceived Thy danger; yet, in truth, 'tis this. Babbo: A canker works within thy grove. Their proud Humility is boast. And when they speak Of life to thee who lovest life, and say In Rome lurks death, dost thou not know that herbs As dangerous are grown in Avignon? Of life thou speakest. That Other Christ was not Content to offer His alone for friends: His foes sufficed to die for. Thus does death Hold tournament with life. Take heart! The Church Requires thy courage. And forgive thy child; I'm bold with suffering that dies, and fails To die. Thy blessing, father -- Rise and come! |