(127)

---

THE bone that has no marrow;

   What ultimate for that?

It is not fit for table,

   For beggar, or for cat.

 

A bone has obligations,

   A being has the same;

A marrowless assembly

   Is culpabler than shame.

 

But how shall finished creatures

   A function fresh obtain?—

Old Nicodemus’ phantom

   Confronting us again!