IN BOASTFUL PRIDE
Reading edition
He walked quite proudly on the rocky ledge And shouted, "I am standing here so high! How fine the valley and the flowing rye, I see the barn that's near the osage hedge; Come look—it's splendid from this shaly edge!" He leaned far out and slipped—the foolish guy. Where he had stood was only murky sky. To face great danger is a privilege. Don't dare for show, my boy, the rock might slide. For worthy cause the brave will stand or fall, But watch the stepping where the bluff is steep; Remember too when flushed with boastful pride, Men take most careless risks—don't reckon all; And then—a life goes out in just one leap.