At the last to bale the sea dry,
So that I may save my darlings
Even though I spoil my tail."
Gravely spake the Lord of Heaven:
"Truly 'tis a good example,
Little, gray, absurd Geloori!
Which you set to families.
If all husbands were as faithful,
And all fathers proved as fond,
Happier would be those I fashion,
Sweet would pass the lives I give!"
Then He stooped, and, with his great hand—
Hand that makes the men and spirits—
Hand that holds the stars and planets
As we grasp a bunch of grapes—
Shiva stroked the toiling squirrel;
And there came, from nose to tail-end,
Four green stripes upon the gray;
Marks by the Supreme Hand planted
As a sign of love forever.
