第33章 A RIPPLE SONG

Once a ripple came to land In the golden sunset burning--Lapped against a maiden's hand, By the ford returning.

Dainty foot and gentle breast--

Here, across, be glad and rest.

"Maiden, wait," the ripple saith.

"Wait awhile, for I am Death!"

"Where my lover calls I go--

Shame it were to treat him coldly--

'Twas a fish that circled so, Turning over boldly."Dainty foot and tender heart, Wait the loaded ferry-cart.

"Wait, ah, wait!" the ripple saith;

"Maiden, wait, for I am Death!"

"When my lover calls I haste-

Dame Disdain was never wedded!"

Ripple-ripple round her waist, Clear the current eddied.

Foolish heart and faithful hand, Little feet that touched no land.

Far away the ripple sped, Ripple--ripple--running red!