TWO SCHOOLS

I put my heart to school

In the world, where men grow wise,

“Go out,” I said, “and learn the rule;

“Come back when you win a prize.”

My heart came back again:

“Now where is the prize?” I cried.—

“The rule was false, and the prize was pain,

“And the teacher's name was Pride.”

I put my heart to school

In the woods, where veeries sing,

And brooks run cool and clear;

In the fields, where wild flowers spring,

And the blue of heaven bends near.

“Go out,” I said: “you are half a fool,

“But perhaps they can teach you here.”

“And why do you stay so long,

“My heart, and where do you roam?”

The answer came with a laugh and a song,—

“I find this school is home.”