A mighty message bare he;
Deep in awe the maiden bent
To hear the first Hail Mary![201]
Richard Crashaw (d. 1650) was a poet, but scarcely a hymn-writer, though from his ‘Hymn of St. Thomas’ a good cento may be made.
With all the powers my poor heart hath
Of humble love and loyal faith,
Thus low, my hidden Life, I bow to Thee,
Whom too much love hath bowed more low for me.
Faith is my force: Faith strength affords
To keep pace with Thy powerful words,