24. Old Age

The sixth age shifts
Into the lean and slipper’d pantaloon,
With spectacles on nose and pouch on side;
His youthful hose, well sav’d, a world too wide
For his shrunk shank; and his big manly voice,
Turning again toward childish treble, pipes
And whistles in his sound.

Although their skin remained supple, due to hormones, their whiskers and brows were greying, accompanied by their balding pate. However, their eyes had mellowed by rainbow light. None could guess their age, due to long hair, such as remained, their beard and an unconventionl sense of dress. Such trivialities were of no concern. Much weaker than in youth, they were ever hopeful that they could help to serve others still.