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.

Source:

The Poems Of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Volume 1
Copyright 1853
C. S. Francis & Co., 262 Broadway, New York
Crosby & Nichols, Boston
 

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