Falling upon the frozen world last I heard the slow beat of the Winter rain -Poor foolish drops, down-dripping all in vain;The ice-bound Earth but mocked their puny might, Far better had the fixedness of white And uncomplaining snows--which make no sign, But coldly smile, when pitying moonbeams shine -Concealed its sorrow from all human sight.
Long, long ago, in blurred and burdened years, I learned the uselessness of uttered woe.
Though sinewy Fate deals her most skilful blow, I do not waste the gall now of my tears, But feed my pride upon its bitter, while I look straight in the world's bold eyes, and smile.