THE YOUTH

   In addition he had realized that he was alone in this battle and that he would have to fight it alone against himself and against all others. He had also realized that he that is alone is not abandoned but only he who cannot be alone with himself.
   He swore never to abandon himself, come what might! —
   With this, his first realization, he set forth. He had no fear of the battle. He was eager to take part and, if possible, to be victorious. He had discovered, too, that even the weak have weapons with which they can become victorious if only they knew how to use them.
   Those grey eyes no longer held a question, they held a challenge to Life. — I am ready for the struggle! —
   The spark, the promise of the future flame, glowed steadily.