THE LEGEND OF THE ALMOST SAVED
FROM THE RUSSIAN

ONCE a poor soul, reft from a dull, hard lot

(Which yet was dear, as even dull life may be),

Found herself bodiless in that dread spot

Which mortals know as “Hell” and fearfully

Name in a whisper, while the Saints name not.

“I was not wicked; they have told God lies

To make him send me here,” she moaned in pain,

Then suddenly her wan, reproachful eyes,

Raised to the Pity never sought in vain,