1. When glory is denied or misfortune strikes
The lofty spirit rises to meet it.

2. When shaken with passion it is ardent;
When stirred to generosity it is a cloud.

3. It is humble yet a star in honor and ascent,
Light over souls yet towering aloft.

4. I hope one day we meet though but an hour,
To fructify a year or give a year joy.

5. They wish it niggardly but it is their aim
To see a cloud stand stock-still, not a pour.

6. No fault in it save those of slender means,
Measured by it are base and vile and poor.

7. You reached the heights which they together missed,
As though they never sought what you have gained.

8. Who tells the generous that those of mean estate,
If roused are slumberers, and will but snore?