I waited, and anon became aware
That I was looking less at Avon's eyes
Than at another thing that had a gleam
Quite of its own. "And what the devil's that?"
I questioned.—"Only what you see," said Avon;
"Merely a dagger on a dictionary.
Daggers are out of date, but there you are.
Take it; and if you like it, shave with it."
"If that's the merry best that you can do,
My friend," said I, willing to lay it back,
"I recommend that you be serious."—
"You are the judge and only arbiter
Of that," said he; "and that's why you are here.
Your name is Resignation for an hour,
So be resigned. I shall not praise your work,
Or strive in any way to make you happy.
[6]
