I SEE a Spirit by thy side, Purple-winged and eagle-eyed, Looking like a heavenly guide. Though he seem so bright and fair, Ere thou trust his proffered care, Pause a little, and beware! If he bid thee dwell apart, Tending some ideal smart In a sick and coward heart; In self-worship wrapped alone, Dreaming thy poor griefs are grown More than other men have known; Dwelling in some cloudy sphere, Though God's work is waiting here, And God deigneth to be near; If his torch's crimson glare Show the evil everywhere, Tainting all the wholesome air; While with strange distorted choice, Still disdaining to rejoice, Thou @3wilt@1 hear a wailing voice; If a simple, humble heart Seem to thee a meaner part Than thy noblest aim and art; If he bid thee bow before Crowned Mind and nothing more, The great idol men adore; And with starry veil enfold Sin, the trailing serpent old, Till his scales shine out like gold; Though his words seem true and wise, Soul, I say to thee, Arise, He is a Demon in disguise! |