Till Pool Beyond. 217 



To efforts cunningest, no fish respond. 



When someone, grimly, seeing my dejection, 

 Encourag-ingly says: " The pool beyond 



Is where they 'bite ' the best in this here section." 



So, thither, I supinely take my way, 



Persuaded that a light is dawning round me. 

 Through which the triumph of a perfect day 



May yet be glorious — may it ne'er counfound me! 



And so from pool to ruffled pool beyond, 



I follow this and follow that suggestion ; 

 Acquiring maxim dearly proven sound. 



That penalizes every weak digression. 



Alas! for human faith I sheer despond. 



And turn my sad, deluded glances domeward. 

 Too credulotis I've tramped from pool to pond, 



With empty creel to chase the gloaming homeward. 



As wearily I near my threshold fond. 



Philosophy imposes this reflection : 

 To taste the beauties of the pool beyond. 



It must be sought and foiind by self -inspection. 



