The Poetry Corner

Profit And Loss

By William Arthur Dunkerley (John Oxenham)

Profit?--Loss? Who shall declare this good--that ill?-- When good and ill so intertwine But to fulfil the vast design Of an Omniscient Will?-- When seeming gain but turns to loss,-- When earthly treasure proves but dross,-- And what seemed loss but turns again To high, eternal gain? Wisest the man who does his best, And leaves the rest To Him who counts not deeds alone, But sees the root, the flower, the fruit, And calls them one.