codex002489-067v

Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

I think we are too ready with complaint
In this fair world of God's. Had we
No hope, beyond the zenith & the slope -
Of yon great bank of sky, we might be faint
To muse upon Eternities constraint -
Round our aspirant souls.
But since the scope must widen early
Is it well to dropp for a few days
Consumed in loss, and taint?
O pusillanimous heart - be comforted -
And like a cheerful traveler, take the rod.
Singing beside the hedge.
What if the bread be bitter
In thine inn, & thou unshod -
To meet the flints?
At least, it may be said
Because the way is short
I thank thee _ God.