With head erect in a contemptuous poise,

As if the stars were subject to his will,

And e'en the golden sun was something base,

Which had offended with its wholesome light

In shining on so great a personage,

A being more than ordinary clay,

And much superior to the vulgar herd!

Some faces passed which knew no kindly look,

And felt no friendly pressure of the hand;

And if the face depict the character,

Some passed so steeped in crime and villainy

That Judas' vile, ill-favored countenance

Would seem in contrast quite respectable;

Some features glowed with unfeigned honesty,

Some grimaced in dissimulating craft,

Some smiled benignantly and passed along;

Some faces meek, some stern and resolute;

Some the embodiment of gentleness;

Some whose specific aspects plainly told

Their fondest dreams were not of earth, but heaven;

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