And found but doubt, and all so bright
That seem’d, illusive proved the chase.
Then on the earth I anxious sought
For virtue, glory, love sublime;
And my worn spirit found there nought
But fetid dust and loathsome slime.
Mid clouds with heavenly hues o’ercast
Women of virgin lustre shone;
I saw, I touched them, and they pass’d,
And smoke and ashes left alone.