þriðjudagur, júní 15, 2004

The Thousanth Man
(Rudyard Kipling)


One man in a thousand, Solomon says,
Will stick more close than a brother.
And it's worth while seeking him half your days
If you find him befor the other.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine depend
On what the world sees in you
But the Thousanth Man will stand your friend
With the whole round world agin you.
'Tis neither promise nor prayer nor show
Will settle the finding for 'ee.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em go
By your looks, or your acts, or your glory.
But if he finds you and you find him,
The rest of the world don't matter;
For the Thousanth Man will sink or swim
With you in any water.


You can use his purse with no more talk
Than he uses yours for his spendings,
And laugh and meet in your daily walk
As if there had been no lendings.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em call
for silver and gold in their dealings;
But the Thousanth Man he's worth them all
Because you can show him your feelings.


His wrong's your wrong and his right's your right
In season or out of season.
Stand up and back it in all men's sight--
With that for your only reason!
Nine hundred and ninety-nine can't bide
The shame or mocking or laughter,
But the Thousanth Man will stand by your side
To the gallows-foot -- and after!

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