“And you are old, WEG, that no one denies.
But I’m really surprised that you have not yet learnt
That in age no criterion lies.”
“It’s exceedinly rude,” Father William rejoined,
“To speak thus to your elders and betters.
Remember, ‘Small boys should be seen and not heard,’
As you’ll read when they teach you your letters.”
“But, being so old,” the Coming One cried,
“You ought to be wiser, it’s plain.
But no—a thought strikes me—I see it, of course: