Tannhäuser

So easy, I am fearful of mishap. Some fatal argument the God must find That linked us first. The dice are in His lap- Let Him decide in His imperial mind! My choice ; to see entirely —and be blind ! Yet I bethink me of that holy man, (Pagan albeit) my stirrup's wisdom-share : " Learn this from Thothmes the Egyptian. " Use only in thine uttermost despair ! " He whispered me a Word. " Beware ! Beware " Two voices are there in the sullen sea ; " Two functions hath the inevitable fire ; " Earthquake hath earth, and yet fertility : " See to thy purpose, and thy set desire ! " Else, dire the fate — the ultimation dire ! " Vague threats and foolish words ! Quite meaningless The empty sounds he muttered in mine ear. Why should their silly mystery impress My thoughtful forehead with the lines of fear ? (This riding saps my courage as my cheer.) D 25