Part 28 (2/2)

THE OBELISK.

On a pedestal lofty the sculptor in triumph has raised me.

”Stand thou,” spake he,--and I stand proudly and joyfully here.

THE TRIUMPHAL ARCH.

”Fear not,” the builder exclaimed, ”the rainbow that stands in the heavens; I will extend thee, like it, into infinity far!”

THE BEAUTIFUL BRIDGE.

Under me, over me, hasten the waters, the chariots; my builder Kindly has suffered e'en me, over myself, too, to go!

THE GATE.

Let the gate open stand, to allure the savage to precepts; Let it the citizen lead into free nature with joy.

ST. PETER'S.

If thou seekest to find immensity here, thou'rt mistaken; For my greatness is meant greater to make thee thyself!

THE PHILOSOPHERS.

PUPIL.

I am rejoiced, worthy sirs, to find you in pleno a.s.sembled; For I have come down below, seeking the one needful thing.

ARISTOTLE.

Quick to the point, my good friend! For the Jena Gazette comes to hand here, Even in h.e.l.l,--so we know all that is pa.s.sing above.

PUPIL.

So much the better! So give me (I will not depart hence without it) Some good principle now,--one that will always avail!

FIRST PHILOSOPHER.

Cogito, ergo sum. I have thought, and therefore existence!

If the first be but true, then is the second one sure.

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