Divine meditations upon several subjects whereunto is annexed Gods love and man's unworthiness, with several divine ejaculations / written by John Quarles.

Adams Petition to God.

Once more, thou Metropolitan of all The spacious world, I here presume to call Upon thy mercy; Oh let me inherit The pleasing fruit of thy re-pleased Spirit: I am thy fabrick, Oh some pity take, Preserve the building for the Builders sake. Cloath not thy brow with frowns, but let thine eye (That rests inshrin'd with glorious Majesty) Reflect upon my sorrows; Oh encline Thy willing ears to hear this grief of mine: Oh do not say I shall as soon remove A mountain as thy heart, thou canst not love; Let not such harsh imbitter'd language flow Out of a mouth so sweet; I know, I know, Thou art as good as great; oh therefore bow Thy sacred ears to hear, oh hear me now: Bestow some scraps on me, that have deserv'd Nothing but stripes; for I have fondly swerv'd

From thy commands & have committed treason Against thy Majesty: Great God of Reason, View my en-humbled Soul, see how it lies Before thy sight, a weeping Sacrifice, I know thou knowst I am a hainous sinner, Yet pity me, that am a young beginner In this rich art of begging: Do not slight My real prayers; I know thou tak'st delight In being merciful; Oh let me not Return unanswer'd, or my prayers forgot: Oh hear the sorrows of my bleeding state, Let my complaints make thee compassionate. And let the fervor of my language turn Thy thoughts to pity; quench these flames that burn My wasting Soul; speak peace to me that find A civil war in my uncivil mind: Oh I have tasted of thy hot displeasure Too much, Ah shall thy vengeance know no mea∣sure? Say 'tis enough; though (Lord) I must confess I have deserved more, yet give me less. Thus with a melting heart I end my Suit, Ah me! how bitter is forbidden fruit!