"UNTO THE LEAST."

EVELYN SYLVESTER KNOWLES.

If as a man Truth walked this temporal shore
And found his way unto my humble door,
Would I be ready for the royal guest?
In bridal robes of white be fitly dressed,
Wearing the girdle of humility,
With clean white sandals, and my staff hard by?

Would the guest-chamber, with its linen pure
And fresh, stand waiting with an open door?
The board with viands choice be freely spread—
The wine of God, imperishable bread?
Would all my windows sparkle in the sun,
Admitting heaven's light to every one?

If then he looked into my upraised eyes,
Would there be aught to cause him sad surprise?
And, if his seeing thought read all in mine,
Would he find aught to cause a tear to shine?
And if he bade me run or walk or stay,
Have I the needed wisdom to obey?
Should he command me,—"Sing! Praise thou thy
God!"
Would I have voice and impulse to accord?
How shall I know? What test there be
To prove my readiness, ability?