C.D. Warner, et al., comp.
The Library of the World’s Best Literature. An Anthology in Thirty Volumes. 1917.

Florence Earle Coates (1850–1927)

HE seemed to call me, and I shrank dismayed.

Deeming he threatened all I held most dear;

But when at last his summons I obeyed,

Perplexed and full of fear,

I found upon his face no angry frown—

Only a visor down.

Indignant that his voice, so calm and sweet,

In my despite unto my soul appealed,

I cried, “If thou hast courage, turn and meet

A foeman full revealed!”

And with determined zeal that made me strong,

Contended with him long.

But oh, the armor he so meekly bore

Was wrought for him in other worlds than ours!

In firm defense of what he battled for

Were leagued eternal powers!

I fell; yet overwhelmed by my disgrace,

At last I saw his face!

And in its matchless beauty I forgot

The constant service to my pledges due;

And with adoring love that sorrowed not,

Entreated, “Tell me who

Hath so o’erthrown my will and pride of youth?”

He answered, “I am Truth.”