To the Victor

YOU have outstripped me in the race,Your brow shall wear the laurel's grace;But though on-speeding in your mightYou pass beyond my straining sight,My spirit shall with yours keep pace!

For I have dreamed your dream divine,For I have worshiped at the shrineWhose oracles your faith have moved,For I have loved what you have loved—Your victory is also mine!

Shall the grave gods pronounce their choiceAnd I not lift in praise my voice?Or shall another win the goalWhose vision hath illumed my soul,And I, though distant, not rejoice?

Ah, no! Your greater gifts prevail;But though to reach your side I fail,Through you triumphant in defeat,Even in death I will repeat,—Hail to the victor! Hail! . . .