O world, thou choosest not the better part! br It is not wisdom to be only wise, br And on the inward vision close the eyes, br But it is wisdom to believe the heart. br Columbus found a world, and had no chart, br Save one that faith deciphered in the skies; br To trust the soul's invincible surmise br Was all his science and his only art. br br Our knowledge is a torch of smoky pine br That lights the pathway but one step ahead br Across a void of mystery and dread. br Bid, then, the tender light of faith to shine br By which alone the mortal heart is led br Unto the thinking of the thought divine.