Of whitest ripples o'er the reef—found place

For much display; not gathered up and, hurled

Right from its heart, encompassing the world.

So had Sordello been, by consequence,

Without a function: others made pretence

To strength not half his own, yet had some core

Within, submitted to some moon, before

Them still, superior still whate'er their force,—

Were able therefore to fulfil a course,

Nor missed life's crown, authentic attribute.