70. St. Paul at Melita
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"And when Paul had gathered a bundle of
sticks, and laid
them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat." |
SECURE in his prophetic strength, |
| The water peril o'er, |
| The many-gifted man at length |
| Stepp'd on the promised shore. |
He trod the shore; but not to rest, |
| Nor wait till Angels came; |
| Lo! humblest pains the Saint attest, |
| The firebrands and the flame. |
But, when he felt the viper's smart, |
| Then instant aid was given; |
| Christian! hence learn to do thy part, |
| And leave the rest to Heaven. |
Messina.
February 8, 1833. |