XVI

From Casa Guidi windows? Shut them straight;

And let us sit down by the folded door

      And veil our saddened faces, and so, wait

What next the judgment-heavens make ready for.

      I have grown weary of these windows. Sights

Come thick enough and clear enough with thought,

      Without the sunshine; souls have inner lights:

And since the Grand-duke has come back and brought

      This army of the North which thus requites

His filial South, we leave him to be taught.

His South, too, has learnt something certainly,

Whereof the practice will bring profit soon;

      And peradventure other eyes may see,

From Casa Guidi windows, what is done

      Or undone. Whatsoever deeds they be,

Pope Pius will be glorified in none.