The Law

Speak softly, when thou speakest Justice’ name
For here is one in gravest turmoil born
Thou knowest not through what travail she came
Or what great burdens on her way hath borne

Remember she is young, but just conceived
A small handful of centuries ago
‘Ere when ’twas not so commonly believed
That law more powerful than wrong could grow

And see how frail she is, for all her might
How brave, how patiently she wears the blind
‘Twas tied by her own hand, afeared the sight
Of sorrow tempt her heart to be too kind

Speak soft, but speak! Speak low and calm and clear
In spite of dreadful challenge, she is here!