REGRET.

There is a haunting phantom called Regret,

A shadowy creature robed somewhat like Woe,

But fairer in the face, whom all men know

By her sad mien and eyes forever wet.

No heart would seek her; but once having met,

All take her by the hand, and to and fro

They wander through those paths of long ago —

Those hallowed ways‘ twere wiser to forget.

One day she led me to that lost land's gate

And bade me enter; but I answered “No!

I will pass on with my bold comrade, Fate;

I have no tears to waste on thee — no time;

My strength I hoard for heights I hope to climb:

No friend art thou for souls that would be great.”