I HAVE failed in a thousand cases,
But I still have the heart to try ;
I am scarred in a hundred places,
No darling of Luck am I

In many a crucial hour
I have hoped, and been scorned and kicked ;
But never has Fate had power
To convince me that I was licked.

I have trusted and been mistaken ;
My friendship has been betrayed ;
I have struggled alone, forsaken
By men who have had my aid ;

I have listened to those who flattered,
Their motives misunderstood,
But my faith has remained unshattered ;
I believe in the ultimate good.

I ask for no unearned pleasure,
No pathway through flowery lanes ;
I offer a full, fair measure
Of effort for all my gains;

I'll try, though the pace be grilling,
Nor whine if I'm tripped or tricked,
As long as my soul's unwilling
To let me believe I am licked.