Young and Old

HIGH over wintry shires
Young men streak through the rain;
While old men leave their fires
To plod along the lane.

Each with a goal his own
(Beginner’s or ender’s luck) —
Four hundred miles to Cologne,
Two to the Dog and Duck.

Gunning for foes, behold
The young soon down their first;
Grinning to friends, the old
Meanwhile enjoy their thirst.

Hard duties, warm desires
Make hours go slow or fast,
Till young men leave their fires
And old men down their last.