Part 14 (2/2)

x.x.xV

Oh that I might have my request, And that G.o.d would grant me the thing I long for!

Even that it would please him to destroy me, That he would let go his hand and cut me off!

x.x.xVI

Then should I yet have comfort, Yea, I would exult in my relentless pain.

For that, at least, would be my due from G.o.d, Since I have never withstood the words of the Holy One.

x.x.xVII

What is my strength that I should hope?

And what mine end that I should be patient?

Is my strength the strength of stones?

Or is my flesh of bra.s.s?

x.x.xVIII

Am I not utterly bereft of help?

And is not rescue driven wholly away from me?

Is not pity the duty of the friend, Who, else, turneth away from the fear of G.o.d?

x.x.xIX

My brethren have disappointed me as a torrent, They pa.s.s away as a stream of brooks, Which were blackish by reason of the ice, Wherein the snow hideth itself.

XL

The caravans of Tema sought for them, The companies of Sheba hoped for them.

But when the sun warmed them they vanished; When it waxed hot they were consumed from their place.

XLI

Did I say: Bestow aught upon me?

Or give a bribe for me of your substance?

Or deliver me from the enemy's hand?

Or redeem me from the hand of the mighty?

XLII

Teach me and I will hold my tongue; And cause me to discern wherein I have erred.

How cutting are your ”righteous” words!

But what doth your arguing reprove?

<script>