1. A gathering where the eminent convene
At the highest of ranks

2. Last night the fireplace was for us
A companion brightening souls and hearts

3. It spoke to us with tongues like those
Of snakes, steady and writhing

4. When the embers appeared black as
The night and scattered sparks like planets

5. And the glow of flames bloomed on it
In the blush of rosy cheeks

6. I thought the dawn sun was unveiled
To creation in a dome of clouds