The Dogs Of Bethlehem

Many a starry night had they known, Melampo, Lupina and Cubil[=o]n, Shepherd-dogs, keeping The flocks, unsleeping, Serving their masters for crust and bone.

Many a starlight but never like this, For star on star was a chrysalis Whence there went soaring A winged, adoring Splendor out-pouring a carol of bliss.

Sniffing and bristling the gaunt dogs stood, Till the seraphs, who smiled at their hardihood, Calmed their panic With talismanic Touches like wind in the underwood.

In the dust of the road like gold-dust blown, Melampo, Lupina and Cubil[=o]n Saw strange kings, faring On camels, bearing Treasures too bright for a mortal throne.

Shepherds three on their crooks a-leap Sped after the kings up the rugged steep To Bethlehem; only The dogs, left lonely, Stayed by the fold and guarded the sheep.

Faithful, grim hearts! The marvelous glow Flooded e'en these with its overflow, Wolfishness turning Into a yearning To worship the highest a dog may know.

When dawn brought the shepherds, each to his own, Melampo, Lupina and Cubil[=o]n Bounded to meet them, Frolicked to greet them, Eager to serve them for love alone.