THE BIRTH OF MAN.
23
Then smiling, thou unveil'dst, O two-faced year,
A virgin world where doors of sunset part,
Saying, " Ho, all who weary, enter here !
There falls each ancient harrier that the art
Of race or creed or rank devised, to rear
Grhn hulwarked hatred hetween heart and heart ! "
1883.
THE BIRTH OF MAN.
A LEGEND OF THE TALMUD.
I.
When angels visit earth, the messengers
Of Grod's decree, they come as lightning, wind :
Before the throne, they all are living fire.
There stand four rows of angels — to the right
The hosts of Michael, Gabriel's to the left.
Before, the troop of Ariel, and behind,
The ranks of Raphael ; all, with one accord,
Chanting the glory of the Everlasting.
Upon the high and holy throne there rests,
Invisible, the Majesty of God.
About his brows the crown of mystery
Whereon the sacred letters are engraved
Of the unutterable Name. He grasps
A sceptre of keen fire ; the universe
Is compassed in His glance ; at His right hand
Life stands, and at His left hand standeth Death.