Who were "the Father and the Son"

Who were "the Father and the Son" We pondered when a child, And what had they to do with us And when portentous told

With inference appalling By Childhood fortified We thought, at least they are no worse Than they have been described.

Who are "the Father and the Son" Did we demand Today "The Father and the Son" himself Would doubtless specify --

But had they the felicity When we desired to know. We better Friends had been, perhaps, Than time ensue to be --

We start -- to learn that we believe But once -- entirely -- Belief, it does not fit so well When altered frequently --

We blush, that Heaven if we achieve -- Event ineffable -- We shall have shunned until ashamed To own the Miracle --