But solely to please Solomon, gain his esteem.
So slaves that seek for favour at a master’s hand
Exert themselves to name the talents they command.
But if they feel ashamed of one would them purchase,
Straightway they’re sick, halt, deaf, or something still more base.330
The turn then came for hoopoe’s setting forth his skill,
To say what he could do, what office he could fill.
Said he: “O King, one little talent’s all I own.
I’ll tell it in few words; succinctness is a crown.”
Said Solomon: “Let’s hear it. What then is thy skill?”