Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.
By AmbroseBierce832 The Death of Grant
F
Is part of thy compassion’s plan,
Thy works presumptuously we scan
For what the prophets say they saw.
Walling us in, we climb to gain
Assurance of the shining plain
That faith has certified to hope.
The shadow and the cloud abide;
Subdue the doubt, our spirits guide
To trust the Record and be still;
Who, heedful of his high design,
Ne’er raised a seeking eye to thine,
But wrought thy will unconsciously,
Nor questioning of cause or creed:
For anything but duty’s deed
Too simply wise, too humbly great.
His shadow shifted o’er the land,
Portentous, as at his command
Successive cities sprang to flame!
The rivers ran in lines of light!
Thy will be done on earth—if right
Or wrong he cared not to inquire.
The service of the despot blade;
His the soft answer that allayed
War’s giant animosities.
Fill, Father, with another light,
That we may see with clearer sight
Thy servant’s soul in Paradise.