I never knew a man by the name
of wickedness or deceit.
I have met only gentle heroes
and patient managers all.
I have met a hundred men kind
and generous to the poor.
I have known a bold few even
proud of their happy fortune.
 
But I never knew a man to beg
openly before God, his Creator.
Not that I haven't heard tell
of such unworldly creatures here.
I have never travelled so far
that I encountered even a saint.
But if I travel even a step closer
God may forgive me yet.