I When fails the light at sunset grey,

Soi nux me pherei ton aoidon, anax

Synesius, 4th Century

When darkness falls, and night is here,

My hymns of praise in silence rise, --

This knows the moon, whose silver sphere

Shines in the star bespangled skies.

When morning breaks, and glorious day

Shines in the dawn and noontide fair, --

This knows the sun -- a grateful lay

Springs from my heart in fervent prayer,

When fails the light at sunset grey,

And twilight listens for my song, --

This know the stars, -- in bright array,

My praises mingle with their throng.