But I, ere they could spring up the first stage,

Went forth to meet them;

And they bound my wrists.

And so, down from the hills, my life has flowed,

Until, at fullest flood, it meets the sea.

With calm and unregretful heart, I wait

Till dawn shall loose the arrow from the bow.

I, who, with eager, faltering hand have sought

To fashion a little beauty, in the end,

Have looked on the perfect beauty, and I die--