The Voice of the Ancient Bard

1Youth of delight! come hither

2And see the opening morn,

3Image of Truth new-born.

4Doubt is fled, and clouds of reason,

5Dark disputes and artful teazing.

6Folly is an endless maze;

7Tangled roots perplex her ways;

8How many have fallen there!

9They stumble all night over bones of the dead;

10And feel — they know not what but care;

11And wish to lead others, when they should be led.