Prologue to Scene II

We show you a story
to stir your remembrance, 
to bring you a challenge!
Now mark the next chapter: 

On board the Elgiva
Moored fast by the Island,
Three men sit in council
And write fateful letters:  

The rugged sea-captain,
The carpenter-preacher,
The dark-skinned Fernandian
In one faith accordant. 

They plead for the Island, 
The flock long untended, 
The door that stands open, 
the distant horizon.

Oh, you to whose fathers
Came ringing the summons,
To-day in your hearts may 
The call be re-echoed!