For faith he had not, or a faith too weak
To gain the help that humble sinners seek;
Else had he pray’d - to an offended God
His tears had flown a penitential flood;
Though far astray, he would have heard the call
Of mercy - “Come! return, thou prodigal:”
Then, though confused, distress’d, ashamed, afraid,
Still had the trembling penitent obey’d;
Though faith had fainted, when assail’d by fear,
Hope to the soul had whisper’d, “Persevere!”