Heaven is not reached at a single bound; But we build the ladder by which we rise From the lowly earth to the vaulted skies, And we mount to its summit round by round.
He could see naught but vanity in beauty And naught but weakness in a fond caress And pitied men whose views of Christian duty Allowed indulgence in such foolishness.
God give us men. The time demands Strong minds, great hearts, true faith, and willing hands; Men whom the lust of office does not kill; Men whom the spoils of office cannot buy; Men who possess opinions and a will; Men who have honor; men who will not lie; Men who can stand before a demagogue And dam his treacherous flatteries without winking; Tall men, sun-crowned, who live above the fog In public duty and in private thinking.
Wanted.
Note 1. Rostand: Chantecler: Hymn to the Sun, page 998. [back]