The pupil may surpass the sage
If such his aim shall be,
May fathom truths for many an age
Were wrapped mystery.
The genius may invent some plan
To ease the laborer's toil,
Or add facility for man
To cultivate the soil.
Contentment never did aspire
To elevate mankind,
It never raised the standard higher
Of science or of mind.
'Tis Discontent that gains the prize
In every useful art;
Although it brings us tearful eyes
And restlessness of heart;
But then it has a sweet reward—
Progression is the fruit,
But some this sweetness have abhorred
For others have the boot.
For he who blesses most mankind,
Himself is seldom blessed,
And he whose deeds should be enshrined
Will seldom be caressed.
Yet, let our banner ne'er be furled,
Our lives in quiet spent;
For 'tis a truth that all the world
Still thrives on Discontent.
OUR POLITICS.
"The purification of politics is an iridescent dream."
U. S. Senator, John J. Ingalls, Kansas.