THOUGH formed of what by all is prized,

I'm universally despised:

Though light[6] myself, I darken you;

And though I'm missed, I balk your view.

In cities is my favorite haunt,

Although afloat I also flaunt:

Land travellers e'er rail at me,

While sailors wish me in the sea.

Yet, spite of all their dire abuse,

The wise will deem I serve some use.