Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

Adelaide Anne Procter 1825–64

Per Pacem Ad Lucem

I DO not ask, O Lord, that life may be

A pleasant road;

I do not ask that Thou wouldst take from me

Aught of its load;

I do not ask that flowers should always spring

Beneath my feet;

I know too well the poison and the sting

Of things too sweet.

For one thing only, Lord, dear Lord, I plead,

Lead me aright—

Though strength should falter, and though heart should bleed—

Through Peace to Light.

I do not ask, O Lord, that thou shouldst shed

Full radiance here;

Give but a ray of peace, that I may tread

Without a fear.

I do not ask my cross to understand,

My way to see;

Better in darkness just to feel Thy hand

And follow Thee.

Joy is like restless day; but peace divine

Like quiet night:

Lead me, O Lord,—till perfect Day shall shine,

Through Peace to Light.