The truth is manifest and clear to all, That thou art thane most excellent of Him, The King who sits enthroned in majesty; Because the swelling ocean knew thee straight, The circuit of the raging ocean knew 530 That thou didst have the Holy Spirit's gifts. The sea, the mingling waves, turned back again; Still grew the Terror, the wide-bosomed flood; The waves subsided straightway when they saw That God had girt thee with His covenant, He who did stablish by His own strong might The blessedness of glory without end." Then spake with holy voice the champion Valiant of heart; he magnified the King Who rules in glory, speaking thus in words:-- 540 "Blest art Thou, King of men, Redeeming Lord; Thy power endureth ever; near and far Thy name is holy, bright with majesty, Renowned in mercy 'mong the tribes of men. There lives no man beneath the vault of heaven, Ruler of nations, Savior of men's souls, No one of mortal race, who can declare How gloriously Thou dealest Thy good gifts, Or tell their number. It is manifest That Thou has been most gracious to this youth. 550 And hast adorned him with Thy holy grace, Young as he is; for he is wise in wit And in discourse of words. I never found A mind more prudent in a man so young." The Glory of kings, the Source and End of all, Gave answer from the ship and boldly asked:-- "Tell, if thou canst, O prudent-minded thane, How on the earth it ever came to pass That faithless men, the nation of the Jews, Raised blasphemy against the Son of God 560 With hearts of wickedness. Unhappy men, Cruel, malicious, they did not believe In Him who gave them life, that He was God, Though many miracles among the tribes He showed full clear and manifest; but they, Guilt-laden men, knew not the Royal Child, Him that was born a comfort and defense Unto mankind, to all who dwell on earth. In wisdom and in power of speech increased The noble Prince; and aye the Lord of might 570 Showed forth his wonders to that stubborn folk."