I MUST—this warns me that my way is barred,
Either by Nature’s law or custom hard.
I CAN—in this is summed up all my might,
Whether to do, or know, or judge aright.
I WILL—my diadem, by the soul imprest
With freedom’s seal—the ruler in my breast.
I DARE—at once a motto for the seal,
And, dare I? barrier ’gainst unlicensed zeal.
I MAY—is final, and at once makes clear
The way which else might vague and dim appear.