Page:Literary Souvenir 1827.pdf/4

34

And differently the poison works On every differing mind, Some grow false as the false they blamed, And thus 'tis with mankind: But there are some whose loftier mood Grows maddened on such things to brood.

The young warm heart whose faith and love Were all too prompt at first, What must it feel when these are turned To darkness and distrust? Wormwood to know that heart has been Dupe of the false, prey of the mean.

Such will not ask for sympathy, Knowing they ask in vain,— Nor yield to softer feelings way To be deceived again; And bitter laugh, and scornful sneer, Become at once their shield and spear.

Such, methinks, was the destiny That threw its chill o'er thee; Thou hadst mixed with the false, till all Seemed but alike to be. Could not the workings of thine heart Another, holier creed impart?