A Parallel

Deep in this gorge the sullen waters roll,
Over my head the clouds in black array,
Sweep their long skirts round the converging whole
While hostile eve succeeds to hostile day;
Yet here in sight
One dauntless wavelet of this gloom-struck lake
Catches the light,
Resists the night,
And the whole scene grows living for its sake.

From early dawn through ever-darkening years
Clouds black as night have thickened in men’s sight,
Yet undismayed by caitiff doubts and fears,
Some still hope on, some still for honour fight.
Oh gallant toilers in a desperate cause,
Fain would I see
The shadows flee,
Light grow round ye
Who, great of heart! labour without applause.