But this one doubt, half sadness as it came
From his delighted lips, and with his look
Of childlike and appealing confidence,
Was keener than a mother’s heart could bear!
She bowed her head, and struggled, as if life
Were bursting from its seal; and, as the thought
Rushed over her to take her idol back,
And keep him for her God, he murmured low,
‘And are you sure, my mother?’—‘No! my son!’
And the strong tide of nature gathered back