The Inn Of Earth

I came to the crowded Inn of Earth,

And called for a cup of wine,

But the Host went by with averted eye From a thirst as keen as mine.

Then I sat down with weariness And asked a bit of bread,

But the Host went by with averted eye And never a word he said.

While always from the outer night The waiting souls came in With stifled cries of sharp surprise At all the light and din."Then give me a bed to sleep," I said, "For midnight comes apace"— But the Host went by with averted eye And I never saw his face."Since there is neither food nor rest,

I go where I fared before"— But the Host went by with averted eye And barred the outer door.