From those who came in scores a few there were
Who feared the devil more than fast and prayer,
And these remained and took the hermit's vow.
A dozen saints there grew to be; and now
Macarius, happy, lived in larger care.
He taught his brethren all the lore he knew,
And as they learned, his pious rigors grew.
His whole intent was on the spirit's goal:
He taught them silence—words disturb the soul:
He warned of joys, and bade them pray for sorrow.
And be prepared to-day for death to-morrow
To know that human life alone was given
To prove the souls of those who merit heaven;
He bade the twelve in all things be as brothers,
And die to self, to live and work for others.
"For so," he said, "we save our love and labors.
And each one gives his own and takes his neighbor's."
Thus long he taught, and while they silent heard,
He prayed for fruitful soil to hold the Word.
