The Circle of Affection and Other Pieces in Prose and Verse

by Duncan Campbell Scott

 

ON HEARING BACH'S "SHEEP MAY SAFELY GRAZE"

(To Ethel Barlett and Rae Robertson)

 
IN THESE celestial meadows,
        Tranquil eternal days,
On sweet, unwithering herbage,
        Sheep may safely graze:

The sheep the wondering shepherds
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        Watched over in their sleep,
When all their homeland-heaven,
        Deep beyond starry deep,

Was swift with legion angels,
        A bright exultant throng,
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While from the flaming zenith
        Fell the triumphal song.

We, Keepers of the Vision
        In time of darkest night,
Will hear triumphant voices
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        And see a glorious light;

Will make our sure defences,
        When through the radiant days
In deep, protected valleys
        Our sheep may safely graze.
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