There is a haunting phantom called Regret,
    A shadowy creature robed somewhat like Woe,
    But fairer in the face, whom all men know
By her sad mien, and eyes for ever wet.
No heart would seek her; but once having met
    All take her by the hand, and to and fro
    They wander through those paths of long ago---
Those hallowed ways 'twere wiser to forget.

One day she led me to that lost land's gate
    And bade me enter; but I answered "No!
I will pass on with my bold comrade Fate;
    I have no tears to waste on thee---no time---
    My strength I hoard for heights I hope to climb;
No friend art thou, for souls that would be great."