by the time it matters

wisdom is but sharp experience read

against the peal of years and given weight

still by the time it matters we are dead

so all your chiding some good thought has bred

within each mind before the hour turns late

wisdom is but sharp experience read

in the cold pages of the tale of dread

as drear hours pass until we reach the gate

still by the time it matters we are dead

and all good judgment given up and fled

since it is past all moment for debate

wisdom is but sharp experience read

as text to the dark music in each head

that echoes in deep tones against the slate

still by the time it matters we are dead

therefore avoiding all those who have fled

into the perils of a different state

wisdom is but sharp experience read

still by the time it matters we are dead