The mighty forces of mysterious space
   Are one by one subdued by lordly man.
   The awful lightnings, that for eons ran
Their devastating and untrammeled race,
Now bear his messages from place to place
   Like carrier doves. The winds lead on his van,
   The lawless elements no longer can
Resist his strength, but yield with sullen grace.
His bold feet scaling heights before untrod,
   Light, darkness, air and water, heat and cold
He bids go forth and bring him power and pelf.
And yet, though ruler, king and demi-god,
   He walks with his fierce passions uncontrolled,
The conquerer of all things--save himself.

                                 ELLA WHEELER WILCOX.