To one like Jacob wrestling at Peniel,
Besieged by grief and fear and bitter pain,
Yet meeting error's thrusts with brave denial,
An angel message brought the light again.
"Child, dear to Love, He sees thy brave endeavor;
Thy prayer for strength to do His will He hears.
He knows thy steadfast faith which clings forever
To Truth and Life, in spite of tempting fears.
"Lo, thou canst hear His voice above the tumult.
With peace and confidence thy thought He fills.
The comfort of His presence now effaces
Thy loneliness and pain and nameless ills.
"This is the gentle word which heals thy sorrow:
"Only a dream is mortal agony,
A shadow blotted out in Love's bright morrow,
Its very memory gone. Child, thou art free!' "
