Then fell to earth that hero wise in words,
Begging protection, and he asked his Lord:--
"How did it happen, Ruler of mankind, 920
That, sinning 'gainst the Savior of men's souls,
I knew Thee not upon the ocean-way
Good as Thou art? there spake I many words,
More than I should in presence of my God."

Him answered straightway God all-powerful:--
"Thou didst not sin so grievously as when
Thou madest protest in Achaian land
That on far journeyings thou couldst not go,
Nor come unto the town, accomplishing
Thy way within three days, the time ordained, 930
As o'er the struggling waves I bade thee fare.
Thou knowest better now that easily
I can advance and further any man
Who is My friend whithersoe'er I will.
Quickly arise, and straightway learn My will,
Man highly blessed; so shall the Father bright
Adorn thee with His wondrous gifts, with strength
And wisdom unto all eternity!
Go thou into the town, within the walls,
Where bides thy brother; for I know full well 940
Matthew thy kinsman is afflicted sore
With deadly wounds at wicked traitors' hands,
Beset with cunning snares. Him shalt thou seek
And loose from hate of foes, with all that band
Who dwell with him in strangers' cruel chains