Classic Poem

O'Brien, most disconsolate of Men,
Whether thy brave delusions lap thee yet
Or the cold victor's scornful epithet
From thy blank soul come echoed to thee again,
Ah be contented! knowing no loftier rule
Stands in the books of Chivalry's high laws
Than this which bids one in the least good cause
Risk being thought or even being a fool.
In a great labyrinth it were not nought
Though but to show that one way error lies;
It should be plainer to thy country's view
Henceforward what she can and cannot do;
Ireland by thy misjudging may be taught
And by thy misadventure become wise.