An Allegory

    On the wide level of a mountain's head,
    (I knew not where, but 'twas some faery place)
    Their pinions, ostrich-like, for sails outspread,
    Two lovely children run an endless race,
    A sister and a brother!
    This far outstripped the other;
    Yet ever runs she with reverted face,
    And looks and listens for the boy behind:
    For he, alas! is blind!
    O'er rough and smooth with even step he passed,
    And knows not whether he be first or last.

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