How privileged the eyes that now behold
Yon Eastern scene, like cameo clear-cut
In never crumbling gem of timeless truth,
Showing how Love in love reflected is!
. . . .
The Roman captain, helmed, urgent of mien,
Fatherly, loved with heart of gold his slave;
And sought the Jewish elders, to request
Their kindly office for the sick lad's sake.
Instant they speak the Master on behalf
Of one so worthy: one who showed them love,
E'en giving captives—them—a synagogue
In which to pray. Then, as the Master came
The word was sent: I, though an alien, Lord,
From a far-distant land, with duty stern,
Perceive that neither space nor time confines
The power of Love, ask now, that e'en as I
Command these men to do my emperor's will,
So thou command the forces of thy King
To heal the boy by Love's all-powerful Word!
The slave was well; and Jesus marveling said
That whether among strangers born afar
Or amidst Abram's sons, such perfect faith,
Such comprehending love, he had not found!
