BIG WORDS

"I've whined of coming death, but now, no more!

It's weak and most ungracious. For, say I,

Though still a boy if years are counted, why!

I've lived those years from roof to cellar-floor,

And feel, like grey-beards touching their fourscore,

Ready, so soon as the need comes, to die:

And I'm satisfied.

For winning confidence in those quiet days

Of peace, poised sickly on the precipice side