THE FLINT AND THE STEEL

Cruelly bent, it chanced the Flint
Ill-treated the Steel one day;
And wounding, gave it many a dint,
To draw its sparks away.

When laid aside, this angry cried
To that, «What would your value be
Without my help?» the Flint replied,
«As much as yours, sir, but for me».

            * * *

This lesson I write, my friends to incite;
Their talents, however great,
That they must study with them unite,
To duly cultivate.

The Flint gives light with the help of the Steel,
And study alone will talent reveal;
For neither suffice if found apart,
Whatever the talent or the art.