The Meaning of the Look

I think that look of Christ might seem to say—

"Thou Peter! art thou then a common stone

Which I at last must break my heart upon,

For all God's charge, to His high angels, may

Guard my foot better? Did I yesterday

Wash thy feet, my beloved, that they should run

Quick to deny me 'neath the morning-sun,—

And do thy kisses, like the rest, betray?—

The cock crows coldly.—Go, and manifest

A late contrition, but no bootless fear!

For when thy deathly need is bitterest,

Thou shalt not be denied, as I am here—

My voice, to God and angels, shall attest,—

Because I know this man, let him be clear."