My task, I hear, is done. No call on me
Remains, my mighty labour to conclude.
In sickness, in calamity, in age,
And destitution;-in a foreign clime,
I have gone through my work of sanctity;
Though sometimes by my fear or toil subdued:
And sometimes, dazzled by the heavenly page,
I have sunk lifeless at its rays sublime.
Oft did I pause, and oft despondent turn'd,
Ere yet I entered on the dread career;
But fitfully the flame within me burn'd:
Yet now and then a spirit to mine ear
Came; and thus said, as by a voice from Heaven :-
"Follow thy youthful vow, and thou shalt be forgiven !"