ECCLESIASTICAL SONNETS
II
ECCLESIASTICAL SONNETS
FROM false assumption rose, and, fondly hailed By superstition, spread the Papal power; Yet do not deem the Autocracy prevailed Thus only, even in error’s darkest hour. She daunts, forth-thundering from her spiritual tower, Brute rapine, or with gentle lure she tames. Justice and Peace through Her uphold their claims; And Chastity finds many a sheltering bower. Realm there is none that if controlled or swayed By her commands partakes not, in degree, 10 Of good, o’er manners arts and arms, diffused: Yes, to thy domination, Roman See, Tho’ miserably, oft monstrously, abused By blind ambition, be this tribute paid.