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Whoso answers my questions Knoweth more than me; Hunger is but knowledge In a less degree: Prophet, priest, and poet Oft prevaricate, And the surest sentence Hath the greatest weight. When upon my gaiters Drops the morning dew, Somewhat of Life’s riddle Soaks my spirit through. I am buskined by the goddess Of Monadnock’s crest, And my wings extended Touch the East and West. Or ever coal was hardened In the cells of earth, Or flowed the founts of Bourbon, Lo! I had my birth. I am crowned coeval With the Saurian eggs, And my fancy firmly Stands on its own legs. Wouldst thou know the secret Of the barberry-bush. Catch the slippery whistle Of the moulting thrush. Dance upon the mushrooms, Dive beneath the sea, Or anything else remarkable, Thou must follow me! |