The deathless mother, grey and battle-scarred, <br />Lies in the sanctuary of stately trees, <br />Where the deep Northern night is saffron starred <br />Above her head, and thro' the dusk she sees <br />God's shadowy fortress keep unsleeping guard. <br /> <br />From her full breast we drank of joy and mirth <br />And gave to her a boy's unreasoned heart, <br />Wherein Time's fullness was to bring to birth <br />Such passionate allegiance that to part <br />Seemed like the passing of all light on earth. <br /> <br />Now on the threshold of a man's estate, <br />With a new depth of love akin to pain <br />I ask thy blessing, while I dedicate <br />My life and sword, with promise to maintain <br />Thine ancient honour yet inviolate. <br /> <br />Last night dream-hearted in the Abbey's spell <br />We stood to sing old Simeon's passing hymn, <br />When sudden splendour of the sunset fell <br />Full on my eyes, and passed and left all dim - <br />At once a summons and a deep farewell. <br /> <br />I am content - our life is but a trust <br />From the great hand of God, and if I keep <br />The immortal Treasure clean of mortal rust <br />Against His claim, 'tis well and let me sleep <br />Among the not dishonourable dust.<br /><br />William Noel Hodgson<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ave-mater-atque-vale/
