My modest conduct gratified.

But, O thou best of hermits, they

Oppose my wish these rites to pay;

They one and all refuse consent,

Nor aid me in my high intent.

Fate is, I ween, the power supreme,

Man's effort but an idle dream,

Fate whirls our plans, our all away;

Fate is our only hope and stay;

Now deign, O blessed Saint, to aid