I

He sees the world as a boisterous place

Where all things bear a laughing face,

And humorous scenes go hourly on,

   Does John.

II

They find the world a pleasant place

Where all is ecstasy and grace,

Where a light has risen that cannot wane,

   Do John and Jane.

III

They see as a palace their cottage-place,

Containing a pearl of the human race,

A hero, maybe, hereafter styled,

   Do John and Jane with a baby-child.

IV

They rate the world as a gruesome place,

Where fair looks fade to a skull’s grimace,—

As a pilgrimage they would fain get done—

   Do John and Jane with their worthless son.