Poems Sigourney 1834/On a Picture of Penitence

by Lydia Sigourney

ON A PICTURE OF PENITENCE.

Aye, look to Heaven. Earth seems to lend
    Refuge nor ray thy steps to guide,
Bids pity with suspicion blend,
    And slander check compassion's tide.

We will not ask what thorn hath found
    Admittance to thy bosom fair,
If love hath dealt a traitor's wound,
    Or hopeless folly wake despair:

We only say, that sinless clime,
    To which is raised thy streaming eye,
Hath pardon for the deepest crime,
    Though erring man the boon deny:

We only say, the prayerful breast,
    The gushing tear of contrite pain,
Have power to ope that portal blest,
    Where vaunting pride doth toil in vain.