Classic Poem

II

Tenderly do we feel by Nature's law
For worst offenders: though the heart will heave
With indignation, deeply moved we grieve,
In afterthought, for Him who stood in awe
Neither of God nor man, and only saw,
Lost wretch, a horrible device enthroned
On proud temptations, till the victim groaned
Under the steel his hand had dared to draw.
But O, restrain compassion, if its course,
As oft befalls, prevent or turn aside
Judgements and aims and acts whose higher source
Is sympathy with the unforewarned, who died
Blameless — with them that shuddered o'er his grave,
And all who from the law firm safety crave.