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Van Dyke, Henry, 1852-1933

"The Poems of Henry Van Dyke"

The light fades: musical interlude.
The light increases again with ruddy sunset
shining on the door of ELISHA'S house. The
prophet appears and looks off, shading his
eyes with his hand as he descends the steps.
Trumpet blows,--NAAMAN'S call;--sound of
horses galloping and men shouting. NAAMAN
enters joyously, followed by SABALLIDIN and
soldiers, with gifts.]
NAAMAN:
Behold a man delivered from the grave
By thee! I rose from Jordan's waves restored
To youth and vigour, as the eagle mounts
Upon the sunbeam and renews his strength!
O mighty prophet deign to take from me
These gifts too poor to speak my gratitude;
Silver and gold and jewels, damask robes,--
ELISHA: [Interrupting.]
As thy soul liveth I will not receive
A gift from thee, my son! Give all to Him
Whose mercy hath redeemed thee from thy plague.
NAAMAN:
He is the only God! I worship Him!
Grant me a portion of the blessed soil
Of this most favoured land where I have found
His mercy; in Damascus will I build
An altar to His name, and praise Him there
Morning and night.


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