Then rend it from that heart! I ask no place,

Though ’twere a throne, without the state becomes me⁠—

Without the homage due to royal Truth.

And should a world betide pronounce me false,

You are to choose between the world and me.

If I be not more than all worlds to you,

I will not stoop to less! I will have all⁠—

Your proudest, purest, noblest, loftiest love⁠—

Your perfect trust—your soul of soul—or nothing!

Shall I not have them? Speak! on poorer spirits⁠—