On many paths I've sought to tread,
⁠But still turned back defeated;
With countless projects in my head
⁠Have never one completed.

And now a life I feel was meant
⁠Some good deed to achieve,
Can scarce do aught (so far 'tis spent)
⁠Its promise to retrieve.

Oh! that myself I might but find
⁠Ere fate rings down the curtain,
And no more wander, sick and blind,
⁠Where naught is plain or certain!