The Sphinx once barred my way at a dark rock,
Where, like a publican, thug, or beggar,
“Truth!” she cried – ever truth-hungry –
Won’t let a fellow go;
– “Man? . . . he is a priest yet unaware,
And still unformed . . .”–
I answered her.
And – o! wonders abide . . .
Sphinx pressed her back to the rock:
– I slipped by alive!