Versos English Louise Imogen Guiney Deo Optimo Maximo

English poem

Deo Optimo Maximo

by (1861–1920)

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ALL else for use, one only for desire; Thanksgiving for the good, but thirst for Thee: Up from the best, whereof no man need tire, Impel thou me.

Delight is menace, if Thou brood not by, Power a quicksand, Fame a gathering jeer. Oft as the morn, (though none of earth deny These three are dear,)

Wash me of them, that I may be renewed, Nor wall in clay mine agonies and joys: O close my hand upon Beatitude! Not on her toys.