The Thousandth Man

One man in a thousand, Solomon says will
stick more close than a brother.
And it's worth seeking him all 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 world against you.
'Tis not promise nor prayer nor show
will settle the finding for thee.
Nine hundred and ninety nine of them go
by your looks, or your acts or your glory.
But if he finds you and you find him,
the rest of the world doesn't matter.
For the thousandth man will sink or swim
with you in any water.
It's you can use his purse with no more talk,
than he use his yours for his spendings,
and laugh and meet in your daily walk
as though there had been no lendings.
Nine hundred and ninety nine of them call
for silver and gold in their dealings,
but the thousandth man he's worth them all
because you can show him your feelings.
His wrong's your wrong, and his rights your right,
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.
Rudyard Kipling