The Reason

"Why shouldest Thou be as a wayfaring man, that turneth aside to tarry for a night?" -- Jer. xiv. 8.

Nay, do not get the venison pasty out;

I shall not greatly put myself about

Hungry, he may be; yes, and we shall spare

Some bread and cheese, 'tis truly whole- some fare.

We have to-morrow's dinner still to find;

It's well for you I have a frugal mind.

Not the best bed! No, no. Whatever next?

Why with such questionings should I be vext?

The man is naught to us; why should we care?

The little attic room will do; 'tis bare,

But he'll be gone before to-morrow's light;

He has but come to tarry for a night.

I shall not speak with him. Oh, no, not I,

Lest I should pity overmuch, or buy

Some paltry ware of his. Nay, I'll to bed,

And he can sup alone, well warmed and fed;

'Tis much to take him in a night like this.

Why should I fret me with concerns of his?

Grey morning came, and at the break of day

The Man rose up and went upon his way