Page:The poems of Emma Lazarus volume 1.djvu/248

234 If my defect Be an hereditary grain i’ the blood, Even as you say, I must abide by it; But if patrician habits more than birth Beget such faults, then may I dare to hope. Not mine, I knew, I felt, to clear new paths, To win new kingdoms ; yet were I content With such achievement as a strenuous will, A firm endeavor, an unfaltering love, And an unwearying spirit might attain. Cast me not lightly back. Banish me not From this, my home of hope, of inspiration!

What, my ungentle father! Will you hear, And leave this worthy signer’s suit unanswered?

Well, he may bide. Sir, I will speak with you Anon upon this work. I judged in haste. Yea, it hath merit. I am weary now; To-morrow I shall be in fitter mood To give you certain hints.


 * [ bows his thanks and advances to address silences and dismisses him with a wave of the hand. Exit.