The potentialities of men of action
Are displayed in willing acceptance of what is difficult.
Mean spirits have no weapon but spite,
This is their one rule of life.
But Life is power made manifest, 1045
And its mainspring is the desire for victory.
Mercy out of season is a coldness of Life’s blood,
A break in the rhythm of Life’s music.
Whoever is sunk in the depths of ignominy
Calls his weakness contentment. 1050