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!
