II
I have a banner and a great duke's way,
I have an High Adventure of my own.
Yet would I rather squire a knightlier,—Nay!
Be the least harper by his red-hung throne.
I am not satisfied with any love
Till I can say, "O stronger far than I!"
Is it a shame to hide the aching of,
A sacred mystery to justify?
Through all our spiritual discontents
Thrills the strange leaven of renunciation.—
Ah! god unknown behind the Sacraments
Unfailing of the earthly expiation,
Lift up this amethyst-encumbered Vine,
Crush from her pain some ransom-cup of Wine.