And yet, were all done and past,
I should feel just as small,
For when I had tried to the very last—
'Twas my duty, after all!
It is only much the same
As not being liar or thief!
The Father answers.
One who tried it found even, with shame,
That of sinners he was the chief!
My boy, I am glad indeed
You have been finding the truth!
Willie speaks.
But where's the good? I shall never speed—
Be one whit greater, in sooth!
If duty itself must fail,
And that be the only plan,
How shall my scarce begun duty prevail
To make me a mighty man?
The Father answers.
Ah, Willie! what if it were
Quite another way to fall?
What if the greatness itself lie there—
In knowing that you are small?