1. Your book arrived like a harbinger
For one long lost, a joyful tiding,

2. As if good fortune had come calling,
Or remedy and resurrection.

3. It came just when the night was darkest,
The travelers frozen in their tracks,

4. And in each crevice there emerged
A brilliant and resplendent dawn.

5. Time's countenance turned bright for me
Though lately it had frowned and glowered.

6. The spheres of destiny, it seemed,
Began to turn as I desired.

7. I opened it, and it was like
A gown of silk or coat of mail,

8. Like scroll and parchment that contained
The epic tales and battlefields.

9. As if a night it was, throughout
Whose darkness wandered radiant day.

10. Between lines like a stirring life
When joy has settled in its home.

11. And wonders leaving hearts entranced,
As if, from joy, they'd sprouted wings.

12. Each meaning like a wealthy man
Who shelters those in need.

13. Or like deliverance attained
By one who'd lost all hope of freedom.

14. Or like good fortune or relief
Of matters difficult and thorny.

15. So peace be upon one whose peace
Endures, whose pillar is secure.