And buried too, himself gorged to the full, He slept with breath oppressed and unstrung claw. Oh marvel passing strange which next I saw : In sleep he dwindled to the common size, And all the empire faded from his coat. Then from far off a wingèd vessel came, Swift as a swallow, subtle as a flame: I know not what it bore of freight or host, It levelled strong Euphrates in its course; It seemed to tame the waters without force The prudent crocodile rose on his feet What can it mean? you ask. I answer not For meaning, but myself must echo, What? And tell it as I saw it on the spot. SONG. OH roses for the flush of youth, And laurel for the perfect prime; But pluck an ivy branch for me Grown old before my time. Oh violets for the grave of youth, And bay for those dead in their prime; Give me the withered leaves I chose Before in the old time. F THE HOUR AND THE GHOST. BRIDE. O LOVE, love, hold me fast, He draws me away from thee; I cannot stem the blast, Nor the cold strong sea: Far away a light shines Beyond the hills and pines; It is lit for me. BRIDEGROOM. I have thee close, my dear, No terror can come near; Only far off the northern light shines clear. GHOST. Come with me, fair and false, To our home, come home. It is my voice that calls: Once thou wast not afraid When I woo'd, and said, 'Come, our nest is newly made Now cross the tossing foam. BRIDE. Hold me one moment longer, He taunts me with the past, His clutch is waxing stronger, Hold me fast, hold me fast. He draws me from thy heart, And I cannot withhold: He bids my spirit depart With him into the cold: Oh bitter vows of old! |