When the bright glow of youth was overpast.

Worn out, exhausted by the weary route

That leads from knowledge to disgust and doubt,

Defeat, deceit, and baffled purpose stole

Like a corroding canker to my soul.

I hated Life, scorned and despised my kind,

So far astray may err the unbridled mind.

I had been nigh to death; the sullen wave

Already my consenting feet did lave,

When one who thought to be my friend, and fain