In rendering the story into verse, I have kept to the text as closely as possible. M. L.)
Once—I've read in olden story—
Lived a holy man of God,
And two children, 'neath his guidance,
Through life's pitfalls safely trod.
Every day's returning duties
Found them docile at his side,
There to draw from Wisdom's fountain
All his tender care supplied.
But the day's first, freshest hour