The worthy man with trust receives
What in the world he finds;
And, self ignoring, he believes
In hope for noble minds;
And dedicates, with ardour warm,
In Truth's defence, his trusty arm.

But all too soon, alas, he learns
How puny life has grown;
And in the struggle only yearns
To guard and keep his own.
His heart, with cold indifferent pride
Even from love now turns aside.

Ah! Even Truth's celestial rays
Can lose their wonted fire.
Woe be to them whose conscience pays
For knowledge they acquire.
'Tis well th' enthusiast's warmth to snare
With worldly-wise yet prudent care!