George Washington Wright Houghton (1850–1891)

HE failed. He reached to grasp Hesperides,

To track the footcourse of the sun, that flies

Toward some far-western couch, and watch its rise,—

But fell on unknown sand-reefs, chains, disease.

He won. With splendid daring, from the seas’

Hard, niggard fist he plucked the glittering prize,

And gave a virgin world to Europe’s eyes,

Where gold-dust choked the streams, and spice the breeze.

He failed fulfillment of the task he planned,

And drooped a weary head on empty hand,

Unconscious of the vaster deed he ’d done;

But royal legacy to Ferdinand

He left: a key to doorways gilt with sun,—

And proudest title of “World-father” won!