Who's There?

Destiny
Like a grim sentinel in the dark,
Calls down a challenge
To stand and be recognized.

But he's a dumb Barnardo,
Sucker for a red herring,
Armed exactly cap-a-pe
And facing in the wrong direction.

Tell him anything.
He'll think it be "no other but e'en so,"
And you may pass.

Say just, "I am a man, sir."
He will not bid the soldiers shoot.
But God, don't fail to answer.