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

Thomas Ashe 1836–89

Poeta Nascitur

THE FLAME-WING’D seraph spake a word

To one of Galilee:—

“Be not afraid: know, of the Lord

Is that is born of thee.”

And by the poet’s bliss and woe

Learn we the will of Heaven:

He is God’s instrument; and so

Swords in his heart are seven.

He is God’s oracle and slave,

As once the priestesses;

His griefs in keeping we should have,

To heal, or make them less.