PRAYER
I ASK good things that I detest.
With speeches fair; Heed not, 1 pray Thee, Lord, my breast,
But hear my prayer.
I say ill things I would not say—
Things unaware: Regard my breast, Lord, In Thy days
And not my prayer.
My heart Is evil in Thy sight:
My good thoughts flee : O Lord, I cannot wish aright—
Wish Thou for me,
O bend my words and acts to Thee,
However ill, That I, whate'er I say or be,
May serve Thee still.