When evil seasons froze the field,
And blight on herdsman fell,
When want struck down the Man, and seal'd
The Spirit with its drowsing spell,
When there was dearth of beef and brew,—
<g>Then</g> came a dearth of parsons too.
Brand.
Aught else: but this ye must not ask!
I'm summoned to a greater task.
The great world's open ear I seek;
Through Life's vast organ I must speak.
What should I here? By mountains pent
The voice of man falls impotent.
The Man.
By mountains echoed, longer heard
Is each reverberating word.
Brand.
Who in a cavern would be bound,
When broad meads beckon all around?
Who'll sweat to plough the barren land
When there are fruitful fields at hand?
Who'll rear his fruitage from the seed
When orchards ripen to the skies?
Who'll struggle on with daily need
When vision gives him wings and eyes?
The Man.
[Shaking his head.]
Your deed I fathom'd,—not your word.
Brand.
[Going.]
Question no more! On board! on board!
