Made answer, “Nay, not parables, but truths;”

Endured no change of phrase; to years remote

Transmitted them as facts.

Better than tale

They loved their minstrel’s harp. The songs he sang

Were songs to brighten gentle hearts, to fire

Strong hearts with holier courage, hope to breathe

Through spirits despondent, o’er the childless floor

Or widowed bed, flashing from highest heaven

A beam half faith, half vision. Many a tear,