The Rose of Sharon

IN his chamber sat the Rabbi

Poring o’er the book of learning,

When a knight with clanking armor

Sudden stood upon the threshold.

Gleamed the cross upon his shoulder,

And his countenance was warlike.

For the tall commanding figure

Was from Palestine returning.

As he gazed at the Crusader

Ceased the rabbi’s heart its beating,

But—upon his lips warm praises

And a sturdy hand did clasp him.

Spoke the Knight, “We both are striving

Toward the same end, good and holy;

My strong arm I must confide in,

But thy help’s thy stronger spirit.

“Seekers of the truth, O Rabbi,

Comrades are we with one purpose.

Pledge and promise your friendship,

Take this rose from soil of Zion.”

Said the Rabbi: “Dost thou know not

Wondrous miracle that clusters

In the withered Rose of Sharon,

How it blossoms in the love-glance?

“Ah, how like the rose, my people!

Parched and drooping in its exile;

But when love-gleam rests upon it,

Dwelling safe in happy freedom,

“Swells its soul, then, in sweet rapture,

Fragrant too, its spirit blossoms

While it wakens to the new life

And forgets its olden sorrows.”