A leaf was riven from a tree,
“I mean to fall to earth,” said he.
The west wind, rising, made him veer.
“Eastward,” said he, “I now shall steer.”
The east wind rose with greater force.
Said he: “’T’were wise to change my course.”
With equal power they contend.
He said: “My judgement I suspend.”
Down died the winds; the leaf, elate,
Cried: “I’ve decided to fall straight.”
Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary (1911)
Beauty Mountain 