Purgatory - читать онлайн бесплатно полную версию книги . Страница 1
The second book in the Prison Diary series, 2003
THE THOUSANDTH MAN
One man in a thousand, Solomon says,Will stick more close than a brother.And it’s worth while seeking him half your daysIf you find him before the other.Nine hundred and ninety-nine dependOn what the world sees in you,But the Thousandth Man will stand your friendWith the whole round world agin you.Tis neither promise nor prayer nor showWill settle the finding for ‘eeNine hundred and ninety-nine of ‘em goBy your looks, or your acts, or your glory.But if he finds you and you find him,The rest of the world don’t matter;For the Thousandth Man will sink or swimWith you in any water.You can use his purse with no more talkThan he uses yours for his spendings.And laugh and meet in your daily walkAs though there had been no lendings.Nine hundred and ninety-nine of ‘em callFor silver and gold in their dealings;But the Thousandth Man he’s worth ‘em all,Because you can show him your feelings.His wrong’s your wrong, and his right’s your right,In season or out of season.Stand up and back it in all men’s sight -With that for your only reason!Nine hundred and ninety-nine can’t bideThe shame or mocking or laughter,But the Thousandth Man will stand by your sideTo the gallows-foot – and after!Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936)