Carol and Cadence New poems: MDCCCCII-MDCCCCVII: By John Payne |
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ULTIMA RATIO. |
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Carol and Cadence | ||
ULTIMA RATIO.
For this I thank the Fates, that else have beenStepmothers frowning-faced to me and stern,
That they have granted me my bread to earn
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Vouchsafing me from sordid strife and mean
To hold and base compliances to spurn,
That stain the soul, and fellowships that burn
Their brand indelible on mind and mien.
So, back on life, now drawing to its goal,
'Spite darksome days and sorrow-stricken nights,
Content I look, that never have forsaid
My faith, but for the flowerage of my soul
Have forced the unwilling world to yield me bread,
If scanty, sweet, being gotten on the heights.
Carol and Cadence | ||