Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882). Complete Poetical Works. 1893.
In the HarborLoss and Gain
W
What I have lost with what I have gained,
What I have missed with what attained,
Little room do I find for pride.
How many days have been idly spent;
How like an arrow the good intent
Has fallen short or been turned aside.
To measure loss and gain in this wise?
Defeat may be victory in disguise;
The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide.