Like beasts new caught; and man-like spectres pale;
And shapes like women, fair, or one time fair
(Unhappiest these), that would not lift the veil.
Then saw I what is wrought on man by men:
Then saw I woman's glory and her shame:
Then learned I that which freedom is—till then
The soldier, not of her, but of her name.
The meaning then of Country, Virtue, Faith,
Flashed on me, lightning-like: I pressed my brow
Down on the wayside dust, and vowed till death