Two voyagers.
When first I mark upon my child's clear browThought's wrestling shadows their new struggle keep,
Read my own conflicts in her questions deep,
My own remorse in her repentant vow,
My own vast ignorance in her “Why?” and “How?”
When my precautions only serve to heap
New burdens, and my cares her needs o'erleap,
Then to her separate destiny I bow.
So seem we like two ships, that side by side,
Older and younger, breast the same rough main
Bound for one port, whatever winds betide,
In solemn interchange of joy or pain.
I may not hold thee back. Though skies be dark,
Put forth upon the seas, O priceless bark!
