121. The banner

In the core of the hoary past
There lived a Master
    Of loftiest magnitude.

    He believed in his disciples’
Constant and striking promises.
    Therefore he was entitled
To hoist the Banner of Transcendental Pride.

    Alas, there the story ended not.
Sorrowfully and helplessly
    He watched his disciples’
Hopeless achievements.
    Therefore he was doomed
To hold the flag of permanent failure.