Rewards and Fairies

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 days
       If you find him before the other.
     Nine hundred and ninety-nine depend
       on what the world sees in you,
     But the Thousandth Man will stand your friend
       With the whole round world agin you.

     ‘Tis neither promise nor prayer nor show
       Will settle the finding for ‘ee.
     Nine hundred and ninety-nine of ‘em go
       By 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 swim
       With you in any water.

     You can use his purse with no more shame
       Than he uses yours for his spendings;
     And laugh and mention it just the same
       As though there had been no lendings.
     Nine hundred and ninety-nine of ‘em call
       For 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 bide
       The shame or mocking or laughter,
     But the Thousandth Man will stand by your side
       To the gallows-foot—and after!