The Meaning Of The Look

By Elizabeth Barrett Browning

I think that look of Christ might seem to say --
Thou Peter! art thou then a common stone
Which I at last must break my heart upon,
For all God's charge, to His high angels, may
Guard my foot better? Did I yesterday
Wash thy feet, my beloved, that they should run
Quick to deny me 'neath the morning-sun, --
And do thy kisses, like the rest, betray? --
The cock crows coldly. -- Go, and manifest
A late contrition, but no bootless fear!
For when thy deathly need is obdurest,
Thou shalt not be denied, as I am here --
My voice, to God and angels, shall attest, --
Because I know this man, let him be clear.