And, cheated so, runs for the shining flower,

Unless a rein or guide its love retrieves.

Hence there was need of Law’s restraining power;

A king there needed, that at least some one

Of God’s true city might discern the tower.

The laws exist, but who maintains them? none;

Because the Shepherd, Sovereign of the fold,

Though he may ruminate, no cleft hoof bears:

The people then, seeing their Guide so fond

Of what they crave, and with like greed as theirs,