University of Virginia Library

[The imperial essence, the transcendent dower]

The imperial essence, the transcendent dower
Of all good moments, is the Sense of Power;
The joy of all enjoyments, high or mean,
Active or passive, stormy or serene.
The Sense of Power is freedom, warmth, and light;
The Sense of Weakness, gloom and chains and blight;
The Sense of Power is life's immortal breath;
The Sense of Weakness is the touch of death.