Older than Adam, till Adam came
I was a wanderer, without place or name.
I knew the old Prophets—was servant to two—
To one I was faithful, to the other untrue.
A third once proscribed me, and outlawed my race,
At altar and table denying a place.
Yet, greater than prophets, the Lord of them all
Bids us and our children at his table to call.
I once was a sailor on a dark stormy wave,
When most of my family found but a grave.
The voyage ended safely, 'neath skies bright and fair,
But when the crew landed, lo! I was not there.
Men talk of me slightly, my morals traduce,
And deem my complexion just cause of abuse.
Yet wise men and princes, long ages ago,
Their fates and their fortunes have asked me to show!