In shame is man conceived, through pain is born, And brief the time upon this earth he goes In life inconstant, full of fears and woes. He dies, a shadow by the sun forlorn. And yet from such a man (O Endless God, Within Thyself glorified and blissfully Living through Thyself) almost wistfully Dost Thou desire--from him!--both love and laud. Wondrous the works of Thy charity are, At which Cherubim (comprehension's crest) Wonder bemused and righteous burns afar The flame, the Seraphim, in love's sweet zest. O most Holy Lord, would that we too had, To give thee back, that which thou have hast bade!