1 Thrones, Powers, Dominions, Peoples, Kings. Are changing ’neath our hand. Our fathers also see these things But they do not understand. 2 By—they are by with mirth and tears, Wit or the works of Desire— Cushioned about on the kindly years Between the wall and the fire. 3 The grapes are pressed, the corn is shocked Standeth no more to glean; For the Gates of Love and Learning locked When they went out between. 4 All lore our Lady Venus bares, Signalled it was or told By the dear lips long given to theirs And longer to the mould. 5 All Profit, all Device, all Truth Written it was or said By the mighty men of their mighty youth, Which is mighty being dead. 6 The film that floats before their eyes The Temple’s Veil they call; And the dust that on the Shewbread lies Is holy over all. 7 Warn them of seas that slip our yoke Of slow-conspiring stars— The ancient Front of Things unbroke But heavy with new wars? 8 By—they are by with mirth and tears, Wit or the waste of Desire— Cushioned about on the kindly years Between the wall and the fire!
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