Page:The Works of J. W. von Goethe, Volume 9.djvu/330

296 A SYMBOL.

mason's trade Resembles life, With all its strife,— Is like the stir made By man on earth's face.

Though weal and woe The future may hide, Unterrified We onward go In ne'er-changing race.

A veil of dread Hangs heavier still. Deep slumbers fill The stars overhead, And the foot-trodden grave.

Observe them well, And watch them revealing How solemn feeling And wonderment swell The hearts of the brave.

The voice of the blest, And of spirits on high Seems loudly to cry: "To do what is best, Unceasing endeavour!