They crouch in their corner and weave their web of pale hours,
they count their coins sitting in the dust and call me back.
But my sword is forged, my armour is put on, my horse is eager to
run.
I shall win my kingdom.
LXXV
It was only the other day that I came to your earth, naked and
nameless, with a wailing cry.
To-day my voice is glad, while you, my lord, stand aside to make
room that I may fill my life.
Even when I bring you my songs for an offering I have the secret
hope that men will come and love me for them.
You love to discover that I love this world where you have
brought me.
LXXVI
Timidly I cowered in the shadow of safety, but now, when the
surge of joy carries my heart upon its crest, my heart clings to
the cruel rock of its trouble.
I sat alone in a corner of my house thinking it too narrow for
any guest, but now when its door is flung open by an unbidden joy
I find there is room for thee and for all the world.
I walked upon tiptoe, careful of my person, perfumed, and
adorned--but now when a glad whirlwind has overthrown me in the
dust I laugh and roll on the earth at thy feet like a child.
LXXVII
The world is yours at once and for ever.
And because you have no want, my king, you have no pleasure in
your wealth.
It is as though it were naught.
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