As Jesus suffered for the human race,
So Lincoln suffered for a nation’s crime,
On that same day on which the Saviour died!”
Unveil his face, and note that saintly head
Disfigured by those gashes whose red mouths
Cry, not for vengeance, but for mercy still
E’en towards his murderers! Shall Justice sleep,
Because his gentle spirit wills it so?
Shall God’s right hand be stayed from smiting all
Who in this deed of hell have taken part?