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 Not our hopes and not our fears; Nor in aught they gain or lose Seek a triumph or excuse.

For, so the Ark be borne to Zion, who Heeds how they perished or were paid that bore it? For, so the Shrine abide, what shame—what pride— If we, the priests, were bound or crowned before it? . VII ITH lengthening days we revert to the plan Of stealing an hour from the night, And all but the lamp-makers honour the man Who taught us to husband our light.

There's a stir in the streets, and the feminine flocks Grow denser the closer they near The marts where the merchants exhibit their stocks Of the newest and gayest of gear.

Bright purples of Cos and of Sidon unrolled Work havoc in many a brain; For whenever extravagance urges "Be bold !" Economy whispers "Refrain!"

Collectors of taxes, impartial as Death, Stalk forth on their pitiless rounds; And the lark, inexhaustively lavish of breath, In lyrical rapture abounds. 29