In souls, from childhood crushed and taught
To curb each rising, freeborn thought
Which might disturb the tranquil flow
Of that mysterious stream, below
Whose placid surface monsters glide,
And despots base defile the tide.
What matter? there “the ignoble mass”
Must let all crimes unchallenged pass,
Nor dare by gesture, look or tone,
Transgress this law, “let us alone!”