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1850–1919

TWIN-BORN.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

He who possesses virtue at its best, Or greatness in the true sense of the word, Has one day started even with that herd Whose swift feet now speed but at sin's behest.

It is the same force in the human breast Which makes men gods or demons. If we gird Those strong emotions by which we are stirred With might of will and purpose, heights unguessed

Shall dawn for us; or if we give them sway We can sink down and consort with the lost. All virtue is worth just the price it cost. Black sin is oft white truth that missed its way

And wandered off in paths not understood. Twin-born I hold great evil and great good.

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TWIN-BORN. · Ella Wheeler Wilcox · Poetry Cove