January 18

Child of My love! how have I wearied thee?

NOW I am here, what Thou wilt do with me None of my books will show;

I reade, and sigh, and wish I were a tree; For sure then should I grow

To fruit or shade: at least some bird would trust Her household to me, and I should be just.

Yet, though Thou troublest me, I must be meek; In weakness must be stout.

Well, I will change my service, and go seek Some other master out.

Ah, my deare God! though I am clean forgot, Let me not love Thee, if I love Thee not.

GEORGE HERBERT

A CHARACTER