Classic Poem

He walked quite proudly on the rocky ledge
And shouted, "I am standing here so high!
How fine the valley and the flowing rye,
I see the barn that's near the osage hedge;
Come look--it's splendid from this shaly edge!"
He leaned far out and slipped--the foolish guy.
Where he had stood was only murky sky.
To face great danger is a privilege.
Don't dare for show, my boy, the rock might slide.
For worthy cause the brave will stand or fall,
But watch the stepping where the bluff is steep;
Remember too when flushed with boastful pride,
Men take most careless risks--don't reckon all;
And then--a life goes out in just one leap.