Classic Poem

3.

The dread chaunt ceas'd, and over all,
Except the Wanderer and the child,
Strange awe, like death-bed fear, did fall,
Or sleep, that dreams of woe.
On came the Wanderer, unaffrighted;
And while the valiant child, delighted,
Listen'd, or clapp'd her hands and smil'd,
He stood before the Nun of Snow.

4.

" Fear not, thou Wanderer sad, " she said,
" To follow whither I must lead:
The pray'r is pray'd, the rede is read;
And ever best the boldest speed.
Well hast thou done th' appointed deed:
Full well the chasten'd understand
That they are govern'd who command:
And long, oh, Wanderer sad, have we
Expected thee. "

5.

" Fear? " he replied — and huger grew
His vastness, while on her he threw
A wondering glance; " Ye do my will,
And but my purpose here fulfil.
Proceed ye on your destin'd way,
Obeying Him, whom all obey. "