Pity the wolves who prowl unsleeping
    Guarding the pasture from a thief;
Pity the proud leopards weeping
    Tears of subtle grief.

Pity the savage panthers sheathing
    Sharp distain in silken gloves;
Pity the golden Lions breathing
    Fire upon their loves.

Pity the prickly star that frightens
    The Christ Child with its shattered spear;
Pity the midnight, when it lightens;
    Pity me, my dear.