Page:Florence Earle Coates Mine and Thine 1904 108.jpg



the beginning was I born,

With man from out the dust;

And presently, from earth uptorn,

Came Cruelty and Lust.

Alway, the vassals of my will,

They twain go with me still.

Where'er my flashing sword they see,

Where'er they scent my breath,

Quickly they follow after me,

Bringing despair and death;

Yet still the mighty wear with pride

My liveries, crimson-dyed!