A wanderer found a lump of clay
So sweetly scented of perfume
Its odors scented all the room.
'What are you?' was his quick demand,
'Are you some gem from Samarcand,
Or spikenard in this rude disguise,
Or other costly merchandise?'
'No, I am but a lump of clay.'

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'Then why this scent of perfume here?'
'Friend, if the secret I disclose,
I must say I dwell with the Rose.'
Sweet parable! And will not those
Who love to live with Sharon's Rose,
Spread sweetest perfume all around,
Though low and mean themselves are found?
Dear Lord, abide with us that we
May draw our perfume fresh from Thee!"
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