Part 10

O foolish and most blind old man, Where are those other two?

THE BLIND MAN

Why, one is wed and t'other fed: Small thanks they gave to you.

STRANGER

To me no thanks are due. Yet since I have some little power Bequeathed me at this holy hour, I tell you, friend, that God shall grant This night to you your dearest want.

THE BLIND MAN

Why this sweet odour? Why this flame? I am afraid. What is your name?

THE STRANGER

Ask your desire, for this great night Is passing.

THE BLIND MAN

Sir, I ask my sight.

THE STRANGER

To see this earth? Or would you see That hidden world which sent you me?

THE BLIND MAN

O sweet it were but once before I die To track the bird about the windy sky, Or watch the soft and changing grace Imprinted on a human face. Yet grant me that which most I struggled for, Since I am old, and snow is on the ground. On earth there's little to be found, And I would bear with earth no more. O gentle youth, A fool am I, but let me see the Truth!

THE STRANGER

Gaze in my eyes.

THE BLIND MAN

How can I gaze? What song is that, and what these rays Of splendour and this rush of wings?

THE STRANGER

These are the new celestial things.

THE BLIND MAN

Round the body of a child A great dark flame runs wild. What may this be?

THE STRANGER

Look further, you shall see.

THE BLIND MAN

Out on the sea of time and far away The Empires sail like ships, and many years Scatter before them in a mist of spray: Beyond is mist--when the mist clears - Enough--Away!--O friend, I would be there!

STRANGER