Through the broad aisle, he moved, with cautious tread,
Starting at the dull echo of his steps.
But, as he raised the light to seize the rope,
Its beams shone full upon the sacred desk;
What fearful sight appalled his shuddering gaze!
A Gorgon’s head usurped the holy place,
Which, to his terror-stricken mind appeared
The embodied form of Lucifer himself!
He stopped not to encounter the foul fiend,
But, rushing forth, stayed not his course, until