Pity the wolves who prowl unsleeping
—Guarding the pasture from a thief;
Pity the proud leopards weeping
—Tears of subtle grief.

Pity the savage panthers sheathing
—Sharp disdain in silken gloves;
Pity the golden lions breathing
—Fire upon their loves.

Pity the prickly star that frightens
—The Christ Child with its shattered spear;
Pity the midnight when it lightens;
—Pity me, my dear.