THE PESSIMISTThe pessimistic locust, last to leaf,Though all the world is glad, still talks of grief.
The pessimistic locust, last to leaf,Though all the world is glad, still talks of grief.
AN INSPIRATIONHowever the battle is ended,Though proudly the victor comesWith fluttering flags and prancing nagsAnd echoing roll of drums,Still truth proclaims this mottoIn letters of living light,—No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.Though the heel of the strong oppressorMay grind the weak in the dust;And the voices of fame with one acclaimMay call him great and just,Let those who applaud take warning.And keep this motto in sight,—No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.Let those who have failed take courage;Though the enemy seems to have won,Though his ranks are strong, if he be in the wrongThe battle is not yet done;For, sure as the morning followsThe darkest hour of the night,No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.O man bowed down with labour!O woman young, yet old!O heart oppressed in the toiler’s breastAnd crushed by the power of goldKeep on with your weary battleAgainst triumphant might;No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.
However the battle is ended,Though proudly the victor comesWith fluttering flags and prancing nagsAnd echoing roll of drums,Still truth proclaims this mottoIn letters of living light,—No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.
Though the heel of the strong oppressorMay grind the weak in the dust;And the voices of fame with one acclaimMay call him great and just,Let those who applaud take warning.And keep this motto in sight,—No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.
Let those who have failed take courage;Though the enemy seems to have won,Though his ranks are strong, if he be in the wrongThe battle is not yet done;For, sure as the morning followsThe darkest hour of the night,No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.
O man bowed down with labour!O woman young, yet old!O heart oppressed in the toiler’s breastAnd crushed by the power of goldKeep on with your weary battleAgainst triumphant might;No question is ever settledUntil it is settled right.