They hoped to face a new, exultant sun Upon a summit few had strength to climb. They mounted bravely, if absurdly -- one Beside the other, lost to sense of time. Bewilderingly, the sun was past his prime When they arrived. Clouds counselled their return From slide rock more uncertain than sublime. They felt elation flatten to concern. Each was a pebble in the other's shoe From that swift climbing, and the slurred descent Through gravel. Each uncomfortably knew He was but waiting till the other went, That, with embarrassment to neither, he Might lift his foot, and shake his sandal free. |