A Persian Fable

[114 words] A Persian fable says: One dayA wanderer found a lump of claySo savory of sweet perfumeIts odor scented all the room.“What are you?”was his quick demand,“Are you some gem from Samarkand,Or pure nard in this plain disguise,Or other costly merchandise?”“No, I am but a lump of clay.”“Then whence this wondrous perfume–say!”“Friend, if the secret I disclose,I have been dwelling with the rose.”Sweet parable! and will not thoseWho love to dwell with Sharon’s rose,Distill sweet odors all around,Though low and poor themselves are found?Dear Lord, abide with us that weMay draw our perfume fresh from Thee. L. B. CowmanStreams in the Desert…