When sunshine friends, like summer birds, had flown.

He was misfortune's shield,—a goodly man!

In fact, so kind a soul could scarce be found;

For he would lend to any graceless wight

A sum of money, and would never ask

His bond or bill, or even say "Be sure

To pay me this again next week, or so."

He never craved a debtor in his life!

* * * * *

Around his house, in many a goodly pile,