It cannot be! Is this the heart

That swell’d so late with mighty joy?

Lord, if Thou needs must use Thy dart,

Spare Thy own gifts, and sin destroy.

The greater world knows no decay;

But Thy diviner world of grace

A new Creator every day

Thou suddenly dost rear or rase.

Set up Thy kingdom in my heart,

That all my powers Thy sway may own:

For ah! my Lord, if Thou depart,

Straight rebel Nature mounts Thy throne.

Though heaven be moved, may I remain

Steadfast, and centred firm on Thee:

Here fix Thy court, and still maintain

A standing Majesty in me!