In doctrines stern—in practice most severe;
His gait was slow, and loath he seemed to brook
Such signs of comfort and of earthly cheer;
And up he came, they scarce could reason why,
Like a dark cloud along a cheerful sky.
XVIII.
The gloom that gathered o’er our Father’s breast,
He strove with heavy effort to dispel;
“Elder!” he said, “thou art an honored guest;