The child the while, with soft, sweet smile,
Forgetful of all sorrow,
Lay soundly sleeping in his bed.
The good man kissed him there, and said:
"You leave us not to-morrow!

"I pray you, rest the convent's guest;
This child shall be our own--
A precious care, while you prepare
Your business with the court, and bear
Your message to the throne."

And so his guest he comforted.
O wise, good prior! to you,
Who cheered the stranger's darkest days,
And helped him on his way, what praise
And gratitude are due!


_J.T. Trowbridge._

By permission of the author.


* * * * *


Where is Palos? What is it noted for?

Who was the "good man" spoken of in the poem?