THE MENDICANT.
Reading edition
BY CLINTON SCOLLARD.
Like some way-weary mendicant came I Unto the court where Love holds potent reign, And there in desolation I was fain Before the gateway to lie down and die. But one came forth who heard my mournful cry, Nor mocked nor spurned me with a cold disdain, But cheered me, saying, "Do not nurse thy pain! Be brave and bid the ghosts of dead days fly!" Then I arose and cast the Past aside, And felt within my breast a gladness great That I dared meet the eyes that beamed above: And all the future time was glorified, For I, who was a beggar at the gate, Became a dweller in the court of Love.