It was the hour of dawn; with retinue Of stars that were with him when Love Divine In the beginning into motion drew Those beauteous things, the sun began to shine; And I took heart to be of better cheer Touching the creature with the gaudy skin, Seeing 'twas morn, and spring-tide of the year; Yet not so much but that when into sight A lion came, I was disturbed with fear. Towards me he seemed advancing in his might, Rabid with hunger and with head high thrown: The very air was tremulous with fright.