God made me the messenger of the new heavens and new earth, and told me
where to find them. Reason, charts, and mathematical knowledge had nothing to
do with case."— Columbus
Here, 'mid these paradises of the seas,
The roof beneath of this cathedral old,
That lifts its suppliant arms above the trees,
Each clasping in its hand a cross of gold,
Columbus sleeps — his crumbling tomb behold!
By faith his soul rose eagle-winged and free,
And reached that Power whose wisdom never fails,
Walked 'mid the kindred stars, and reverently
The light earth weighed in God's own golden scales.
A man of passions like to men's was he.
He overcame them, and with hope and trust
Made strong his soul for highest destiny,
And, following Christ, he walked upon the sea:
The waves upheld him — what is here is dust.