St. Paul at Melita

Secure in his prophetic strength, The water peril o’er, The many-gifted man at length Stepp’d on the promised shore.

He trod the shore; but not to rest, Nor wait till Angels came; Lo! humblest pains the Saint attest, The firebrands and the flame.

But, when he felt the viper’s smart, Then instant aid was given; Christian! hence learn to do thy part, And leave the rest to Heaven.