Before man's fall the rose was born,
St. Ambrose says, without the thorn;
But for man's fault then was the thorn
Without the fragrant rose-bud born;
But ne'er the rose without the thorn.
252. GOD'S TIME MUST END OUR TROUBLE.
God doth not promise here to man that He
Will free him quickly from his misery;
But in His own time, and when He thinks fit,
Then He will give a happy end to it.
253. BAPTISM.
The strength of baptism that's within,
It saves the soul by drowning sin.
254. GOLD AND FRANKINCENSE.
Gold serves for tribute to the king,
The frankincense for God's off'ring.
255. TO GOD.
God, who me gives a will for to repent,
Will add a power to keep me innocent;
That I shall ne'er that trespass recommit
When I have done true penance here for it.