Through you I entered heaven and hell, Knew rapture and despair, I flitted o'er the plains of earth And scaled each shining stair: Drank deep the waters of content, And drained the cup of gall, Was regal and was impotent, Was suzerain and thrall. Now, by Reflection's placid pool On evening's mellowed brow, I smile across the backward way And pledge anew my vow; For every glancing, golden gleam, I offer gladly—pain! And I would give a thousand world To live it all again! |