I thank thee---not for that kind deed alone,
  Though deep within my heart the record lies,
  Engraved with those few pleasant memories,
  That like stray sunbeams on my life have shone:
  I thank thee most for this---that when belief
  In human worth was darkening into doubt,---
  As one by one, I marked with bitter grief
  Those I had reverenced with a faith devout
  Turn recreant back upon their heavenward way
  And sink before me into common clay;
  That thou dost come my faith to reassure,
  My wavering trust in goodness to restore,
  And bid my fainting hope take wing once more.