The Candidate (1965)

XXIII. THE CANDIDATE

Down the dark street of monoliths I passed.

The shambling, faceless figure of my Guide

A voiceless thing that beckoned at my side.

And to the dreaded Gate I came at last.

Before the silent Guardian I made

The black unhallowed Sacrifice, and spoke

Names at whose sound forgotten echoes woke.

The portals gaped. I entered unafraid.

Fate, or my stars, or some accursed pride

Had brought me here. Naked, I stood alone

And took the Vow before the Elder Throne—

He laughed, and drew His tattered mantle wide—

O do not seek to learn nor ever ask

What horror hides behind … The Pallid Mask!