The fire shall then not harm thee, now, nor evermore.”50
That mother was a woman firm in true belief;
And thence disdained prostration, though ’t should give relief.
They snatched her infant; next, they dashed it in the flame.
The mother’s spirit quailed to see this deed of shame.
Though not herself, to save her infant, she’d bow down.
But lo! a miracle! The babe cried: “Let alone!
Uninjured am I here. Come in. Be not dismayed.
’Tis cool and pleasant. Cease to feel of fire afraid;—
Mere blinding bandage to the eyes;—naught but a veil.