Where is David, the Next King of Israel?

Where is David? . . . O God's people, Saul has passed, the good and great. Mourn for Saul the first-anointed -- Head and shoulders o'er the state.

He was found among the Prophets: Judge and monarch, merged in one.

But the wars of Saul are ended And the works of Saul are done.

Where is David, ruddy shepherd, God's boy-king for Israel? Mystic, ardent, dowered with beauty, Singing where still waters dwell?

Prophet, find that destined minstrel Wandering on the range to-day, Driving sheep and crooning softly Psalms that cannot pass away.

"David waits," the prophet answers, "In a black notorious den, In a cave upon the border With four hundred outlaw men.

"He is fair, and loved of women, Mighty-hearted, born to sing: Thieving, weeping, erring, praying, Radiant royal rebel-king.

"He will come with harp and psaltry, Quell his troop of convict swine, Quell his mad-dog roaring rascals, Witching them with words divine -- "They will ram the walls of Zion! They will win us Salem hill, All for David, Shepherd David -- Singing like a mountain rill!"