Classic Poem

Thy heavenly M ASTER'S voice with reverent awe
Thou heard'st, as thus to thy stirred heart it spoke:
‘Go forth and gather yon poor scattered Flock
Within the free pale of the Gospel Law.
The trembling lamb pluck from the tiger's paw,
Nor fear his cruel fangs; for by the stroke
Of thy frail staff his cheek-bone shall be broke,
And many saved from the Devourer's jaw.’
Such the high task: and manfully and well
Thou for that peeled and scattered Flock hast striven;
And henceforth they in quietude shall dwell,
(Their ruthless spoilers fettered, or forth-driven,)
With nought to scare them, save the baffled yell
Of hungry wolves from whom the prey was riven.