Classic Poem

Upon the parapet she leapt;
And stood in her heroic woe
Like one that Heaven's own hand still kept
From dashing down the void below!
She stood — she look'd — like one inspired;
Decision mark'd her very breath;
That heart which Honour's voice had fired
Could seek the verge — and smile at death!
Stand back — she cried — thou craven knight!
Thou man debased — thou priest forsworn —
Stand back! or thus before thy sight
I leap — and laugh thy power to scorn!
Think'st thou a woman's soul can be
So helpless in its purity?
That earth hath lent to Guilt alone
A strength to Innocence unknown?
Turn, baffled traitor, turn and find
No weakness sways the immortal mind!
My strength is yet in Abraham's God!
My faith is still enthroned above;
Better to die where Truth hath trod,
Than live polluted by thy love!