"How many and how great concerns of state

Lie at the mercy of the meanest things!

This man, the peer of presidents and kings;

Nay, first among them, passed through dangers gate

In war unscathed, and perils out of date,

To meet a fool whose pistol-shot yet rings

Around the world, and at mere greatness flings

The cruel sneer of destiny or fate!

Yet hath he made the fool fanatic foil

To valor, patience, nobleness, and wit!