There Was a Time + 

There was a time when this poor frame was whole + 

And I had youth and never another care, + 

Or none that should have troubled a strong soul. + 

Yet, except sometimes in a frosty air + 

When my heels hammered out a melody + 

From pavements of a city left behind, + 

I never would acknowledge my own glee + 

Because it was less mighty than my mind + 

Had dreamed of. Since I could not boast of strength + 

Great as I wished, weakness was all my boast. + 

I sought yet hated pity till at length + 

I earned it. Oh, too heavy was the cost. + 

But now that there is something I could use + 

My youth and strength for, I deny the age, + 

The care and weakness that I know⁠—refuse + 

To admit I am unworthy of the wage + 

Paid to a man who gives up eyes and breath + 

For what can neither ask nor heed his death. + 