Labor and the Angel

by Duncan Campbell Scott

When I am weary, when I cannot rest,

I have stretched out my hand into the dark,

And felt the shadow stark,

But no face brooding near,

Nor any tear

Compassionately wept:

I have not slept.

But now I learn my lesson from the sage,

Who burns his lore with acid on the heart;

I will not whimper when I feel the smart,