Roderigo Gonvazales,
Knight of the Johannite order,
Wandered on his morning vigil
As had been his daily custom;
For the Isle of Rhodos was then
Bulwark of the Christian nations
'gainst the Godless Turkish heathen.
As he left the castle portals
He beheld a barefoot child there
Leaning 'gainst the massive entrance.
Tender body as if breathed
In a gaily colored bodice,
And her black hair hast'ly gathered
Underneath a snow-white kerchief.
Soon as Roderigo reached her,
Smilingly she lifted towards him
Eyes that burned as sparks of fire,
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