The western wind through Kiev blows
And fills the town with dust—
Each applicant extols himself,
Puts others in distrust.
From Rome, with seals of pie-plate size,
The Pontiff’s plea was sent:
“Do not adopt the creed of Greeks—
It is not worth a cent!
“Our creed is not like other creeds,
O most illustrious Tsar—
Of all the creeds, the Roman
Is the faithfullest, by far!”
The Patriarch of Tsarograd
Now spoke to Vladimir:
“O do not let that Antichrist
Befoul your noble ear!
“Our creed is not like other creeds,
It will stand every test;
The Greek Catholic faith, of all
Religions, is the best.”
The Synedrium of Rabbis
Now pleaded: “Do not heed,
O Tsar, the Greeks or Romans—
Accept old Moses’ creed!
“Our creed is not like other creeds—
It is the best, O Sire!
The true faith is the Jewish faith
Your subjects to inspire.”
[68]
