PROLOGUE
　　SirWalterVivianallasummer’sdayGavehisbroadlawnsuntilthesetofsunUptothepeople：thitherflockedatnoonHistenants，wifeandchild，andthitherhalfTheneighbouringboroughwiththeirInstituteOfwhichhewasthepatron。IwasthereFromcollege，visitingtheson，——thesonAWaltertoo，——withothersofourset，Fiveothers：weweresevenatVivian—place。
　　AndmethatmorningWaltershowedthehouse，Greek，setwithbusts：fromvasesinthehallFlowersofallheavens，andlovelierthantheirnames，Grewsidebyside；andonthepavementlayCarvedstonesoftheAbbey—ruininthepark，HugeAmmonites，andthefirstbonesofTime；
　　AndonthetableseveryclimeandageJumbledtogether；celtsandcalumets，Claymoreandsnowshoe，toysinlava，fansOfsandal，amber，ancientrosaries，Laboriousorientivorysphereinsphere，ThecursedMalayancrease，andbattle—clubsFromtheislesofpalm：andhigheronthewalls，Betwixtthemonstroushornsofelkanddeer，Hisownforefathers’armsandarmourhung。
　　And’this’hesaid’wasHugh’satAgincourt；
　　AndthatwasoldSirRalph’satAscalon：
　　Agoodknighthe!wekeepachronicleWithallabouthim’——whichhebrought，andI
　　Divedinahoardoftalesthatdealtwithknights，Half—legend，half—historic，countsandkingsWholaidaboutthemattheirwillsanddied；
　　Andmixtwiththese，alady，onethatarmedHerownfairhead，andsallyingthroughthegate，Hadbeatherfoeswithslaughterfromherwalls。
　　’Omiracleofwomen，’saidthebook，’Onobleheartwho，beingstrait—besiegedBythiswildkingtoforcehertohiswish，Norbent，norbroke，norshunnedasoldier’sdeath，Butnowwhenallwaslostorseemedaslost——
　　HerstaturemorethanmortalintheburstOfsunrise，herarmlifted，eyesonfire——
　　Brakewithablastoftrumpetsfromthegate，And，fallingonthemlikeathunderbolt，Shetrampledsomebeneathherhorses’heels，Andsomewerewhelmedwithmissilesofthewall，Andsomewerepushedwithlancesfromtherock，Andpartweredrownedwithinthewhirlingbrook：
　　Omiracleofnoblewomanhood!’
　　Sosangthegallantgloriouschronicle；
　　And，Iallraptinthis，’Comeout，’hesaid，’TotheAbbey：thereisAuntElizabethAndsisterLiliawiththerest。’Wewent（Ikeptthebookandhadmyfingerinit）
　　Downthroughthepark：strangewasthesighttome；
　　Foralltheslopingpasturemurmured，sownWithhappyfacesandwithholiday。
　　Theremovedthemultitude，athousandheads：
　　ThepatientleadersoftheirInstituteTaughtthemwithfacts。OnerearedafontofstoneAnddrew，frombuttsofwaterontheslope，Thefountainofthemoment，playing，nowAtwistedsnake，andnowarainofpearls，Orsteep—upspoutwhereonthegildedballDancedlikeawisp：andsomewhatlowerdownAmanwithknobsandwiresandvialsfiredAcannon：EchoansweredinhersleepFromhollowfields：andhereweretelescopesForazureviews；andthereagroupofgirlsIncirclewaited，whomtheelectricshockDislinkedwithshrieksandlaughter：roundthelakeAlittleclock—worksteamerpaddlingpliedAndshookthelilies：perchedabouttheknollsAdozenangrymodelsjettedsteam：
　　Apettyrailwayran：afire—balloonRosegem—likeupbeforetheduskygrovesAnddroptafairyparachuteandpast：
　　AndtherethroughtwentypostsoftelegraphTheyflashedasaucymessagetoandfroBetweenthemimicstations；sothatsportWenthandinhandwithScience；otherwherePuresport；aherdofboyswithclamourbowledAndstumpedthewicket；babiesrolledaboutLiketumbledfruitingrass；andmenandmaidsArrangedacountrydance，andflewthroughlightAndshadow，whilethetwanglingviolinStruckupwithSoldier—laddie，andoverheadThebroadambrosialaislesofloftylimeMadenoisewithbeesandbreezefromendtoend。
　　Strangewasthesightandsmackingofthetime；
　　Andlongwegazed，butsatiatedatlengthCametotheruins。High—archedandivy—claspt，OffinestGothiclighterthanafire，ThroughonewidechasmoftimeandfrosttheygaveThepark，thecrowd，thehouse；butallwithinTheswardwastrimasanygardenlawn：
　　AndherewelitonAuntElizabeth，AndLiliawiththerest，andladyfriendsFromneighbourseats：andtherewasRalphhimself，Abrokenstatueproptagainstthewall，Asgayasany。Lilia，wildwithsport，Halfchildhalfwomanasshewas，hadwoundAscarfoforangeroundthestonyhelm，Androbedtheshouldersinarosysilk，ThatmadetheoldwarriorfromhisiviednookGlowlikeasunbeam：nearhistombafeastShone，silver—set；aboutitlaytheguests，Andtherewejoinedthem：thenthemaidenAuntTookthisfairdayfortext，andfromitpreachedAnuniversalcultureforthecrowd，Andallthingsgreat；butwe，unworthier，toldOfcollege：hehadclimbedacrossthespikes，Andhehadsqueezedhimselfbetwixtthebars，AndhehadbreathedtheProctor’sdogs；andoneDiscussedhistutor，roughtocommonmen，Buthoneyingatthewhisperofalord；
　　AndonetheMaster，asarogueingrainVeneeredwithsanctimonioustheory。
　　Butwhiletheytalked，abovetheirheadsIsawThefeudalwarriorlady—clad；whichbroughtMybooktomind：andopeningthisIreadOfoldSirRalphapageortwothatrangWithtiltandtourney；thenthetaleofherThatdroveherfoeswithslaughterfromherwalls，AndmuchIpraisedhernobleness，and’Where，’
　　AskedWalter，pattingLilia’shead（shelayBesidehim）’livestheresuchawomannow？’
　　QuickansweredLilia’TherearethousandsnowSuchwomen，butconventionbeatsthemdown：
　　Itisbutbringingup；nomorethanthat：
　　Youmenhavedoneit：howIhateyouall!
　　Ah，wereIsomethinggreat!IwishIwereSomemightpoetess，Iwouldshameyouthen，Thatlovetokeepuschildren!OIwishThatIweresomegreatprincess，IwouldbuildFarofffrommenacollegelikeaman’s，AndIwouldteachthemallthatmenaretaught；
　　Wearetwiceasquick!’AndheresheshookasideThehandthatplayedthepatronwithhercurls。
　　Andonesaidsmiling’PrettywerethesightIfouroldhallscouldchangetheirsex，andflauntWithprudesforproctors，dowagersfordeans，Andsweetgirl—graduatesintheirgoldenhair。
　　Ithinktheyshouldnotwearourrustygowns，ButmoveasrichasEmperor—moths，orRalphWhoshinessointhecorner；yetIfear，IfthereweremanyLiliasinthebrood，Howeverdeepyoumightembowerthenest，Someboywouldspyit。’
　　AtthisupontheswardShetapthertinysilken—sandaledfoot：
　　’That’syourlightway；butIwouldmakeitdeathForanymalethingbuttopeepatus。’
　　Petulantshespoke，andatherselfshelaughed；
　　Arosebudsetwithlittlewilfulthorns，AndsweetasEnglishaircouldmakeher，she：
　　ButWalterhailedascoreofnamesuponher，And’pettyOgress’，and’ungratefulPuss’，Andsworehelongedatcollege，onlylonged，Allelsewaswell，forshe—society。
　　Theyboatedandtheycricketed；theytalkedAtwine，inclubs，ofart，ofpolitics；
　　Theylosttheirweeks；theyvextthesoulsofdeans；
　　Theyrode；theybetted；madeahundredfriends，Andcaughttheblossomoftheflyingterms，ButmissedthemignonetteofVivian—place，Thelittlehearth—flowerLilia。Thushespoke，Partbanter，partaffection。
　　’True，’shesaid，’Wedoubtnotthat。Oyes，youmissedusmuch。
　　I’llstakemyrubyringuponityoudid。’
　　Shehelditout；andasaparrotturnsUpthroughgiltwiresacraftylovingeye，Andtakesalady’sfingerwithallcare，Andbitesitfortrueheartandnotforharm，SohewithLilia’s。DaintilysheshriekedAndwrungit。’Doubtmywordagain!’hesaid。
　　’Come，listen!hereisproofthatyouweremissed：
　　WesevenstayedatChristmasuptoread；
　　Andtherewetookonetutorastoread：
　　Thehard—grainedMusesofthecubeandsquareWereoutofseason：neverman，Ithink，Somoulderedinasinecureashe：
　　Forwhileourcloistersechoedfrostyfeet，Andourlongwalkswerestriptasbareasbrooms，Wedidbuttalkyouover，pledgeyouallInwassail；often，likeasmanygirls——
　　Sickfortheholliesandtheyewsofhome——
　　AsmanylittletriflingLilias——playedCharadesandriddlesasatChristmashere，And~what’smythought~and~when~and~where~and~how~，AshereatChristmas。’
　　Sherememberedthat：
　　Apleasantgame，shethought：shelikeditmoreThanmagicmusic，forfeits，alltherest。
　　Butthese——whatkindoftalesdidmentellmen，Shewondered，bythemselves？
　　Ahalf—disdainPerchedonthepoutedblossomofherlips：
　　AndWalternoddedatme；’~He~began，Therestwouldfollow，eachinturn；andsoWeforgedasevenfoldstory。Kind？whatkind？
　　Chimeras，crotchets，Christmassolecisms，Seven—headedmonstersonlymadetokillTimebythefireinwinter。’
　　’Killhimnow，Thetyrant!killhiminthesummertoo，’
　　SaidLilia；’Whynotnow？’themaidenAunt。
　　’Whynotasummer’sasawinter’stale？
　　Ataleforsummerasbefitsthetime，Andsomethingitshouldbetosuittheplace，Heroic，foraheroliesbeneath，Grave，solemn!’
　　WalterwarpedhismouthatthisTosomethingsomock—solemn，thatIlaughedAndLiliawokewithsudden—thrillingmirthAnecholikeaghostlywoodpecker，Hidintheruins；tillthemaidenAunt（AlittlesenseofwronghadtouchedherfaceWithcolour）turnedtomewith’Asyouwill；
　　Heroicifyouwill，orwhatyouwill，Orbeyourselfyouheroifyouwill。’
　　’TakeLilia，then，forheroine’clamouredhe，’AndmakehersomegreatPrincess，sixfeethigh，Grand，epic，homicidal；andbeyouThePrincetowinher!’
　　’Thenfollowme，thePrince，’
　　Ianswered，’eachbeheroinhisturn!
　　Sevenandyetone，likeshadowsinadream。——
　　HeroicseemsourPrincessasrequired——
　　ButsomethingmadetosuitwithTimeandplace，AGothicruinandaGrecianhouse，Atalkofcollegeandofladies’rights，Afeudalknightinsilkenmasquerade，And，yonder，shrieksandstrangeexperimentsForwhichthegoodSirRalphhadburntthemall——
　　This~were~amedley!weshouldhavehimbackWhotoldthe"Winter’stale"todoitforus。
　　Nomatter：wewillsaywhatevercomes。
　　Andlettheladiessingus，iftheywill，Fromtimetotime，someballadorasongTogiveusbreathing—space。’
　　SoIbegan，Andtherestfollowed：andthewomensangBetweentheroughervoicesofthemen，Likelinnetsinthepausesofthewind：
　　AndhereIgivethestoryandthesongs。
　　I
　　AprinceIwas，blue—eyed，andfairinface，Oftemperamorous，asthefirstofMay，Withlengthsofyellowringlet，likeagirl，ForonmycradleshonetheNorthernstar。
　　Therelivedanancientlegendinourhouse。
　　Somesorcerer，whomafar—offgrandsireburntBecausehecastnoshadow，hadforetold，Dying，thatnoneofallourbloodshouldknowTheshadowfromthesubstance，andthatoneShouldcometofightwithshadowsandtofall。
　　Forso，mymothersaid，thestoryran。
　　And，truly，wakingdreamswere，moreorless，Anoldandstrangeaffectionofthehouse。
　　Myselftoohadweirdseizures，Heavenknowswhat：
　　Onasuddeninthemidstofmenandday，AndwhileIwalkedandtalkedasheretofore，Iseemedtomoveamongaworldofghosts，Andfeelmyselftheshadowofadream。
　　Ourgreatcourt—Galenpoisedhisgilt—headcane，Andpawedhisbeard，andmuttered’catalepsy’。
　　Mymotherpityingmadeathousandprayers；
　　Mymotherwasasmildasanysaint，Half—canonizedbyallthatlookedonher，Sograciouswashertactandtenderness：
　　Butmygoodfatherthoughtakingaking；
　　Hecarednotfortheaffectionofthehouse；
　　Heheldhissceptrelikeapedant’swandTolashoffence，andwithlongarmsandhandsReachedout，andpickedoffendersfromthemassForjudgment。
　　NowitchancedthatIhadbeen，Whilelifewasyetinbudandblade，bethrothedToone，aneighbouringPrincess：shetomeWasproxy—weddedwithabootlesscalfAteightyearsold；andstillfromtimetotimeCamemurmursofherbeautyfromtheSouth，Andofherbrethren，youthsofpuissance；
　　AndstillIworeherpicturebymyheart，Andonedarktress；andallaroundthembothSweetthoughtswouldswarmasbeesabouttheirqueen。
　　ButwhenthedaysdrewnighthatIshouldwed，MyfathersentambassadorswithfursAndjewels，gifts，tofetchher：thesebroughtbackApresent，agreatlabouroftheloom；
　　Andtherewithalananswervagueaswind：
　　Besides，theysawtheking；hetookthegifts；
　　Hesaidtherewasacompact；thatwastrue：
　　Butthenshehadawill；washetoblame？
　　Andmaidenfancies；lovedtolivealoneAmongherwomen；certain，wouldnotwed。
　　ThatmorninginthepresenceroomIstoodWithCyrilandwithFlorian，mytwofriends：
　　Thefirst，agentlemanofbrokenmeans（Hisfather’sfault）butgiventostartsandburstsOfrevel；andthelast，myotherheart，Andalmostmyhalf—self，forstillwemovedTogether，twinnedashorse’searandeye。
　　Now，whiletheyspake，Isawmyfather’sfaceGrowlongandtroubledlikearisingmoon，Inflamedwithwrath：hestartedonhisfeet，Toretheking’sletter，snoweditdown，andrentThewonderoftheloomthroughwarpandwoofFromskirttoskirt；andatthelastheswareThathewouldsendahundredthousandmen，Andbringherinawhirlwind：thenhechewedThethrice—turnedcudofwrath，andcookedhisspleen，Communingwithhiscaptainsofthewar。
　　AtlastIspoke。’Myfather，letmego。
　　ItcannotbebutsomegrosserrorliesInthisreport，thisanswerofaking，Whomallmenrateaskindandhospitable：
　　Or，maybe，Imyself，mybrideonceseen，Whate’ermygrieftofindherlessthanfame，Mayruethebargainmade。’AndFloriansaid：
　　’Ihaveasisterattheforeigncourt，WhomovesaboutthePrincess；she，youknow，Whoweddedwithanoblemanfromthence：
　　He，dyinglately，lefther，asIhear，Theladyofthreecastlesinthatland：
　　Throughherthismattermightbesiftedclean。’
　　AndCyrilwhispered：’Takemewithyoutoo。’
　　Thenlaughing’what，iftheseweirdseizurescomeUponyouinthoselands，andnoonenearTopointyououttheshadowfromthetruth!
　　Takeme：I’llserveyoubetterinastrait；
　　Igrateonrustyhingeshere：’but’No!’
　　Roaredtheroughking，’youshallnot；weourselfWillcrushherprettymaidenfanciesdeadInirongauntlets：breakthecouncilup。’
　　Butwhenthecouncilbroke，IroseandpastThroughthewildwoodsthathungaboutthetown；
　　Foundastillplace，andpluckedherlikenessout；
　　Laiditonflowers，andwatcheditlyingbathedInthegreengleamofdewy—tasselledtrees：
　　Whatwerethosefancies？whereforebreakhertroth？
　　Proudlookedthelips：butwhileImeditatedAwindaroseandrushedupontheSouth，Andshookthesongs，thewhispers，andtheshrieksOfthewildwoodstogether；andaVoiceWentwithit，’Follow，follow，thoushaltwin。’
　　Then，erethesilversickleofthatmonthBecamehergoldenshield，IstolefromcourtWithCyrilandwithFlorian，unperceived，Cat—footedthroughthetownandhalfindreadTohearmyfather’sclamouratourbacksWithHo!fromsomebay—windowshakethenight；
　　Butallwasquiet：fromthebastionedwallsLikethreadedspiders，onebyone，wedropt，Andflyingreachedthefrontier：thenwecrostToalivelierland；andsobytilthandgrange，Andvines，andblowingbosksofwilderness，Wegainedthemothercitythickwithtowers，Andintheimperialpalacefoundtheking。
　　HisnamewasGama；crackedandsmallhisvoice，ButblandthesmilethatlikeawrinklingwindOnglassywaterdrovehischeekinlines；
　　Alittledryoldman，withoutastar，Notlikeaking：threedayshefeastedus，AndonthefourthIspakeofwhywecame，Andmybethrothed。’Youdous，Prince，’hesaid，Airingasnowyhandandsignetgem，’Allhonour。WerememberloveourselvesInoursweetyouth：theredidacompactpassLongsummersback，akindofceremony——
　　Ithinktheyearinwhichourolivesfailed。
　　Iwouldyouhadher，Prince，withallmyheart，Withmyfullheart：buttherewerewidowshere，Twowidows，LadyPsyche，LadyBlanche；
　　Theyfedhertheories，inandoutofplaceMaintainingthatwithequalhusbandryThewomanwereanequaltotheman。
　　Theyharpedonthis；withthisourbanquetsrang；
　　Ourdancesbrokeandbuzzedinknotsoftalk；
　　Nothingbutthis；myveryearswerehotTohearthem：knowledge，somydaughterheld，Wasallinall：theyhadbutbeen，shethought，Aschildren；theymustlosethechild，assumeThewoman：then，Sir，awfulodesshewrote，Tooawful，sure，forwhattheytreatedof，Butallsheisanddoesisawful；odesAboutthislosingofthechild；andrhymesAnddismallyrics，prophesyingchangeBeyondallreason：thesethewomensang；
　　Andtheythatknowsuchthings——Isoughtbutpeace；
　　NocriticI——wouldcallthemmasterpieces：
　　Theymastered~me~。Atlastshebeggedaboon，Acertainsummer—palacewhichIhaveHardbyyourfather’sfrontier：Isaidno，Yetbeinganeasyman，gaveit：andthere，AllwildtofoundanUniversityFormaidens，onthespurshefled；andmoreWeknownot，——onlythis：theyseenomen，NotevenherbrotherArac，northetwinsHerbrethren，thoughtheyloveher，lookuponherAsonakindofparagon；andI
　　（Pardonmesayingit）weremuchlothtobreedDisputebetwixtmyselfandmine：butsince（AndIconfesswithright）youthinkmeboundInsomesort，Icangiveyouletterstoher；
　　Andyet，tospeakthetruth，IrateyourchanceAlmostatnakednothing。’
　　Thustheking；
　　AndI，thoughnettledthatheseemedtoslurWithgarrulouseaseandoilycourtesiesOurformalcompact，yet，notless（allfretsButchafingmeonfiretofindmybride）
　　Wentforthagainwithbothmyfriends。WerodeManyalongleaguebacktotheNorth。AtlastFromhills，thatlookedacrossalandofhope，WedroptwitheveningonarustictownSetinagleamingriver’screscent—curve，Closeattheboundaryoftheliberties；
　　There，enteredanoldhostel，calledminehostTocouncil，pliedhimwithhisrichestwines，Andshowedthelate—writlettersoftheking。
　　Hewithalonglowsibilation，staredAsblankasdeathinmarble；thenexclaimedAverringitwasclearagainstallrulesForanymantogo：butashisbrainBegantomellow，’Iftheking，’hesaid，’Hadgivenusletters，washeboundtospeak？
　　Thekingwouldbearhimout；’andatthelast——
　　Thesummerofthevineinallhisveins——
　　’Nodoubtthatwemightmakeitworthhiswhile。
　　Sheoncehadpastthatway；heheardherspeak；
　　Shescaredhim；life!heneversawthelike；
　　Shelookedasgrandasdoomsdayandasgrave：
　　Andhe，hereverencedhisliege—ladythere；
　　Healwaysmadeapointtopostwithmares；
　　Hisdaughterandhishousemaidweretheboys：
　　Theland，heunderstood，formilesaboutWastilledbywomen；alltheswineweresows，Andallthedogs’——
　　Butwhilehejestedthus，AthoughtflashedthroughmewhichIclothedinact，RememberinghowwethreepresentedMaidOrNymph，orGoddess，athightideoffeast，Inmasqueorpageantatmyfather’scourt。
　　Wesentminehosttopurchasefemalegear；
　　Hebroughtit，andhimself，asighttoshakeThemidriffofdespairwithlaughter，holpTolaceusup，till，each，inmaidenplumesWerustled：himwegaveacostlybribeToguerdonsilence，mountedourgoodsteeds，Andboldlyventuredontheliberties。
　　Wefolloweduptheriveraswerode，AndrodetillmidnightwhenthecollegelightsBegantoglitterfirefly—likeincopseAndlindenalley：thenwepastanarch，Whereonawoman—statuerosewithwingsFromfourwingedhorsesdarkagainstthestars；
　　Andsomeinscriptionranalongthefront，Butdeepinshadow：furtheronwegainedAlittlestreethalfgardenandhalfhouse；
　　ButscarcecouldheareachotherspeakfornoiseOfclocksandchimes，likesilverhammersfallingOnsilveranvils，andthesplashandstirOffountainsspoutedupandshoweringdownInmeshesofthejasmineandtherose：
　　Andallaboutuspealedthenightingale，Raptinhersong，andcarelessofthesnare。
　　TherestoodabustofPallasforasign，BytwospherelampsblazonedlikeHeavenandEarthWithconstellationandwithcontinent，Aboveanentry：ridingin，wecalled；
　　Aplump—armedOstleressandastablewenchCamerunningatthecall，andhelpedusdown。
　　Thensteptabuxomhostessforth，andsailed，Full—blown，beforeusintoroomswhichgaveUponapillaredporch，thebaseslostInlaurel：herweaskedofthatandthis，Andwhoweretutors。’LadyBlanche’shesaid，’AndLadyPsyche。’’Whichwasprettiest，Best—natured？’’LadyPsyche。’’Hersarewe，’
　　Onevoice，wecried；andIsatdownandwrote，InsuchahandaswhenafieldofcornBowsallitsearsbeforetheroaringEast；
　　’ThreeladiesoftheNorthernempireprayYourHighnesswouldenrollthemwithyourown，AsLadyPsyche’spupils。’
　　ThisIsealed：
　　ThesealwasCupidbentaboveascroll，Ando’erhisheadUranianVenushung，Andraisedtheblindingbandagefromhiseyes：
　　Igavethelettertobesentwithdawn；
　　Andthentobed，wherehalfindozeIseemedTofloataboutaglimmeringnight，andwatchAfullseaglazedwithmuffledmoonlight，swellOnsomedarkshorejustseenthatitwasrich。
　　Asthroughthelandatevewewent，Andpluckedtheripenedears，Wefellout，mywifeandI，OwefelloutIknownotwhy，Andkissedagainwithtears。
　　AndblessingsonthefallingoutThatallthemoreendears，WhenwefalloutwiththoseweloveAndkissagainwithtears!
　　ForwhenwecamewhereliesthechildWelostinotheryears，Thereabovethelittlegrave，Othereabovethelittlegrave，Wekissedagainwithtears。
　　II
　　AtbreakofdaytheCollegePortresscame：
　　ShebroughtusAcademicsilks，inhueThelilac，withasilkenhoodtoeach，Andzonedwithgold；andnowwhenthesewereon，Andweasrichasmothsfromduskcocoons，She，curtseyingherobeisance，letusknowThePrincessIdawaited：outwepaced，Ifirst，andfollowingthroughtheporchthatsangAllroundwithlaurel，issuedinacourtCompactoflucidmarbles，bossedwithlengthsOfclassicfrieze，withampleawningsgayBetwixtthepillars，andwithgreaturnsofflowers。
　　TheMusesandtheGraces，groupedinthrees，Enringedabillowingfountaininthemidst；
　　AndhereandthereonlatticeedgeslayOrbookorlute；buthastilywepast，Andupaflightofstairsintothehall。
　　Thereataboardbytomeandpapersat，Withtwotameleopardscouchedbesideherthrone，Allbeautycompassedinafemaleform，ThePrincess；likertotheinhabitantOfsomeclearplanetcloseupontheSun，Thanourman’searth；sucheyeswereinherhead，Andsomuchgraceandpower，breathingdownFromoverherarchedbrows，witheveryturnLivedthroughhertothetipsofherlonghands，Andtoherfeet。Sheroseherheight，andsaid：
　　’Wegiveyouwelcome：notwithoutredoundOfuseandglorytoyourselvesyecome，Thefirst—fruitsofthestranger：aftertime，Andthatfullvoicewhichcirclesroundthegrave，Willrankyounobly，mingledupwithme。
　　What!aretheladiesofyourlandsotall？’
　　’Weofthecourt’saidCyril。’Fromthecourt’
　　Sheanswered，’thenyeknowthePrince？’andhe：
　　’Theclimaxofhisage!asthoughtherewereOneroseinalltheworld，yourHighnessthat，Heworshipsyourideal：’shereplied：
　　’WescarcelythoughtinourownhalltohearThisbarrenverbiage，currentamongmen，Lightcoin，thetinselclinkofcompliment。
　　YourflightfromoutyourbooklesswildswouldseemAsarguingloveofknowledgeandofpower；
　　Yourlanguageprovesyoustillthechild。Indeed，Wedreamnotofhim：whenwesetourhandTothisgreatwork，wepurposedwithourselfNevertowed。Youlikewisewilldowell，Ladies，inenteringhere，tocastandflingThetricks，whichmakeustoysofmen，thatso，Somefuturetime，ifsoindeedyouwill，Youmaywiththoseself—styledourlordsallyYourfortunes，justlierbalanced，scalewithscale。’
　　Atthosehighwords，weconsciousofourselves，Perusedthematting：thenanofficerRoseup，andreadthestatutes，suchasthese：
　　Notforthreeyearstocorrespondwithhome；
　　Notforthreeyearstocrosstheliberties；
　　Notforthreeyearstospeakwithanymen；
　　Andmanymore，whichhastilysubscribed，Weenteredontheboards：and’Now，’shecried，’Yearegreenwood，seeyewarpnot。Look，ourhall!
　　Ourstatues!——notofthosethatmendesire，SleekOdalisques，ororaclesofmode，NorstuntedsquawsofWestorEast；butsheThattaughttheSabinehowtorule，andsheThefoundressoftheBabylonianwall，TheCarianArtemisiastronginwar，TheRhodope，thatbuiltthepyramid，Clelia，Cornelia，withthePalmyreneThatfoughtAurelian，andtheRomanbrowsOfAgrippina。Dwellwiththese，andloseConvention，sincetolookonnobleformsMakesnoblethroughthesensuousorganismThatwhichishigher。Oliftyournaturesup：
　　Embraceouraims：workoutyourfreedom。Girls，Knowledgeisnownomoreafountainsealed：
　　Drinkdeep，untilthehabitsoftheslave，Thesinsofemptiness，gossipandspiteAndslander，die。BetternotbeatallThannotbenoble。Leaveus：youmaygo：
　　TodaytheLadyPsychewillharangueThefresharrivalsoftheweekbefore；
　　Fortheypressinfromalltheprovinces，Andfillthehive。’
　　Shespoke，andbowingwavedDismissal：backagainwecrostthecourtToLadyPsyche’s：asweenteredin，Theresatalongtheforms，likemorningdovesThatsuntheirmilkybosomsonthethatch，Apatientrangeofpupils；sheherselfErectbehindadeskofsatin—wood，Aquickbrunette，well—moulded，falcon—eyed，Andonthehitherside，orsoshelooked，Oftwentysummers。Atherleft，achild，Inshiningdraperies，headedlikeastar，Hermaidenbabe，adoubleAprilold，Agla颽slept。Wesat：theLadyglanced：
　　ThenFlorian，butnotlivelierthanthedameThatwhispered’Asses’ears’，amongthesedge，’Mysister。’’Comely，too，byallthat’sfair，’
　　SaidCyril。’Ohhush，hush!’andshebegan。
　　’Thisworldwasonceafluidhazeoflight，Tilltowardthecentresetthestarrytides，Andeddiedintosuns，thatwheelingcastTheplanets：thenthemonster，thentheman；
　　Tattooedorwoaded，winter—cladinskins，Rawfromtheprime，andcrushingdownhismate；
　　Asyetwefindinbarbarousisles，andhereAmongthelowest。’
　　ThereuponshetookAbird’s—eye—viewofalltheungraciouspast；
　　GlancedatthelegendaryAmazonAsemblematicofanoblerage；
　　AppraisedtheLyciancustom，spokeofthoseThatlayatwinewithLarandLucumo；
　　RandownthePersian，Grecian，RomanlinesOfempire，andthewoman’sstateineach，Howfarfromjust；tillwarmingwithherthemeShefulminedoutherscornoflawsSaliqueAndlittle—footedChina，touchedonMahometWithmuchcontempt，andcametochivalry：
　　Whensomerespect，howeverslight，waspaidTowoman，superstitionallawry：
　　Howeverthencommencedthedawn：abeamHadslantedforward，fallinginalandOfpromise；fruitwouldfollow。Deep，indeed，TheirdebtofthankstoherwhofirsthaddaredToleaptherottenpalesofprejudice，Disyoketheirnecksfromcustom，andassertNonelordlierthanthemselvesbutthatwhichmadeWomanandman。Shehadfounded；theymustbuild。
　　Heremighttheylearnwhatevermenweretaught：
　　Letthemnotfear：somesaidtheirheadswereless：
　　Somemen’sweresmall；nottheytheleastofmen；
　　Foroftenfinenesscompensatedsize：
　　Besidesthebrainwaslikethehand，andgrewWithusing；thencetheman’s，ifmorewasmore；
　　HetookadvantageofhisstrengthtobeFirstinthefield：someageshadbeenlost；
　　Butwomanripenedearlier，andherlifeWaslonger；andalbeittheirgloriousnamesWerefewer，scatteredstars，yetsinceintruthThehighestisthemeasureoftheman，AndnottheKaffir，Hottentot，Malay，Northosehorn—handedbreakersoftheglebe，ButHomer，Plato，Verulam；evensoWithwoman：andinartsofgovernmentElizabethandothers；artsofwarThepeasantJoanandothers；artsofgraceSapphoandothersviedwithanyman：
　　And，lastnotleast，shewhohadleftherplace，Andbowedherstatetothem，thattheymightgrowTouseandpoweronthisOasis，laptInthearmsofleisure，sacredfromtheblightOfancientinfluenceandscorn。
　　AtlastSheroseuponawindofprophecyDilatingonthefuture；’everywhereWhoheadsincouncil，twobesidethehearth，Twointhetangledbusinessoftheworld，Twointheliberalofficesoflife，TwoplummetsdroptforonetosoundtheabyssOfscience，andthesecretsofthemind：
　　Musician，painter，sculptor，critic，more：
　　AndeverywherethebroadandbounteousEarthShouldbearadoublegrowthofthoseraresouls，Poets，whosethoughtsenrichthebloodoftheworld。’
　　Sheendedhere，andbeckonedus：therestParted；and，glowingfull—facedwelcome，sheBegantoaddressus，andwasmovingonIngratulation，tillaswhenaboatTacks，andtheslackenedsailflaps，allhervoiceFalteringandflutteringinherthroat，shecried’Mybrother!’’Well，mysister。’’O，’shesaid，’Whatdoyouhere？andinthisdress？andthese？
　　Whywhoarethese？awolfwithinthefold!
　　Apackofwolves!theLordbegracioustome!
　　Aplot，aplot，aplottoruinall!’
　　’Noplot，noplot，’heanswered。’Wretchedboy，Howsawyounottheinscriptiononthegate，LETNOMANENTERINONPAINOFDEATH？’
　　’AndifIhad，’heanswered，’whocouldthinkThesofterAdamsofyourAcademe，Osister，Sirensthoughtheybe，weresuchAschantedontheblanchingbonesofmen？’
　　’Butyouwillfinditotherwise’shesaid。
　　’Youjest：illjestingwithedge—tools!myvowBindsmetospeak，andOthatironwill，Thataxelikeedgeunturnable，ourHead，ThePrincess。’’Wellthen，Psyche，takemylife，AndnailmelikeaweaselonagrangeForwarning：burymebesidethegate，Andcutthisepitaphabovemybones；
　　~Hereliesabrotherbyasisterslain，Allforthecommongoodofwomankind。~’
　　’Letmedietoo，’saidCyril，’havingseenAndheardtheLadyPsyche。’
　　Istruckin：
　　’Albeitsomasked，Madam，Ilovethetruth；
　　Receiveit；andinmebeholdthePrinceYourcountryman，affiancedyearsagoTotheLadyIda：here，forhereshewas，Andthus（whatotherwaywasleft）Icame。’
　　’OSir，OPrince，Ihavenocountry；none；
　　Ifany，this；butnone。Whate’erIwasDisrooted，whatIamisgraftedhere。
　　Affianced，Sir？love—whispersmaynotbreatheWithinthisvestallimit，andhowshouldI，Whoamnotmine，say，live：thethunderboltHangssilent；butprepare：Ispeak；itfalls。’
　　’Yetpause，’Isaid：’forthatinscriptionthere，Ithinknomoreofdeadlylurkstherein，Thaninaclapperclappinginagarth，Toscarethefowlfromfruit：ifmoretherebe，Ifmoreandactedon，whatfollows？war；
　　Yourownworkmarred：forthisyourAcademe，WhicheversidebeVictor，inthehallooWilltoppletothetrumpetdown，andpassWithallfairtheoriesonlymadetogildAstormlesssummer。’’LetthePrincessjudgeOfthat’shesaid：’farewell，Sir——andtoyou。
　　Ishudderatthesequel，butIgo。’
　　’AreyouthatLadyPsyche，’Irejoined，’ThefifthinlinefromthatoldFlorian，Yethangshisportraitinmyfather’shall（ThegauntoldBaronwithhisbeetlebrowSun—shadedintheheatofdustyfights）
　　AshebestrodemyGrandsire，whenhefell，Andallelsefled？wepointtoit，andwesay，TheloyalwarmthofFlorianisnotcold，Butbranchescurrentyetinkindredveins。’
　　’AreyouthatPsyche，’Florianadded；’sheWithwhomIsangaboutthemorninghills，Flungball，flewkite，andracedthepurplefly，Andsnaredthesquirreloftheglen？areyouThatPsyche，wonttobindmythrobbingbrow，Tosmoothemypillow，mixthefoamingdraughtOffever，tellmepleasanttales，andreadMysicknessdowntohappydreams？areyouThatbrother—sisterPsyche，bothinone？
　　YouwerethatPsyche，butwhatareyounow？’
　　’YouarethatPsyche，’saidCyril，’forwhomIwouldbethatforeverwhichIseem，Woman，ifImightsitbesideyourfeet，Andgleanyourscatteredsapience。’
　　Thenoncemore，’AreyouthatLadyPsyche，’Ibegan，’ThatonherbridalmornbeforeshepastFromallheroldcompanions，whenthekindKissedherpalecheek，declaredthatancienttiesWouldstillbedearbeyondthesouthernhills；
　　ThatwerethereanyofourpeoplethereInwantorperil，therewasonetohearAndhelpthem？look!forsucharetheseandI。’
　　’AreyouthatPsyche，’Florianasked，’towhom，Ingentlerdays，yourarrow—woundedfawnCameflyingwhileyousatbesidethewell？
　　Thecreaturelaidhismuzzleonyourlap，Andsobbed，andyousobbedwithit，andthebloodWassprinkledonyourkirtle，andyouwept。
　　Thatwasfawn’sblood，notbrother’s，yetyouwept。
　　Obythebrightheadofmylittleniece，YouwerethatPsyche，andwhatareyounow？’
　　’YouarethatPsyche，’Cyrilsaidagain，’Themotherofthesweetestlittlemaid，Thatevercrowedforkisses。’
　　’Outuponit!’
　　Sheanswered，’peace!andwhyshouldInotplayTheSpartanMotherwithemotion，beTheLuciusJuniusBrutusofmykind？
　　Himyoucallgreat：heforthecommonweal，ThefadingpoliticsofmortalRome，AsImightslaythischild，ifgoodneedwere，Slewbothhissons：andI，shallI，onwhomThesecularemancipationturnsOfhalfthisworld，beswervedfromrighttosaveAprince，abrother？alittlewillIyield。
　　Bestso，perchance，forus，andwellforyou。
　　Ohard，whenloveanddutyclash!IfearMyconsciencewillnotcountmefleckless；yet——
　　Hearmyconditions：promise（otherwiseYouperish）asyoucame，toslipawayToday，tomorrow，soon：itshallbesaid，Thesewomenweretoobarbarous，wouldnotlearn；
　　Theyfled，whomighthaveshamedus：promise，all。’
　　Whatcouldweelse，wepromisedeach；andshe，Likesomewildcreaturenewly—caged，commencedAto—and—fro，sopacingtillshepausedByFlorian；holdingoutherlilyarmsTookbothhishands，andsmilingfaintlysaid：
　　’Iknewyouatthefirst：thoughyouhavegrownYouscarcehavealtered：IamsadandgladToseeyou，Florian。~I~givetheetodeathMybrother!itwasdutyspoke，notI。
　　Myneedfulseemingharshness，pardonit。
　　Ourmother，isshewell？’
　　WiththatshekissedHisforehead，then，amomentafter，clungAbouthim，andbetwixtthemblossomedupFromoutacommonveinofmemorySweethouseholdtalk，andphrasesofthehearth，Andfarallusion，tillthegraciousdewsBegantoglistenandtofall：andwhileTheystood，sorapt，wegazing，cameavoice，’IbroughtamessageherefromLadyBlanche。’
　　Backstartedshe，andturningroundwesawTheLadyBlanche’sdaughterwhereshestood，Melissa，withherhanduponthelock，Arosyblonde，andinacollegegown，ThatcladherlikeanAprildaffodilly（Hermother’scolour）withherlipsapart，Andallherthoughtsasfairwithinhereyes，AsbottomagatesseentowaveandfloatIncrystalcurrentsofclearmorningseas。
　　Sostoodthatsamefaircreatureatthedoor。
　　ThenLadyPsyche，’Ah——Melissa——you!
　　Youheardus？’andMelissa，’OpardonmeIheard，Icouldnothelpit，didnotwish：
　　But，dearestLady，prayyoufearmenot，NorthinkIbearthatheartwithinmybreast，Togivethreegallantgentlementodeath。’
　　’Itrustyou，’saidtheother，’forwetwoWerealwaysfriends，nonecloser，elmandvine：
　　Butyetyourmother’sjealoustemperament——
　　Letnotyourprudence，dearest，drowse，orproveTheDana飀ofaleakyvase，forfearThiswholefoundationruin，andIloseMyhonour，thesetheirlives。’’Ah，fearmenot’
　　RepliedMelissa；’no——Iwouldnottell，No，notforallAspasia’scleverness，No，nottoanswer，Madam，allthosehardthingsThatShebacametoaskofSolomon。’
　　’Beitso’theother，’thatwestillmayleadThenewlightup，andculminateinpeace，ForSolomonmaycometoShebayet。’
　　SaidCyril，’Madam，hethewisestmanFeastedthewomanwisestthen，inhallsOfLebanoniancedar：norshouldyou（Though，Madam，~you~shouldanswer，~we~wouldask）
　　Lesswelcomefindamongus，ifyoucameAmongus，debtorsforourlivestoyou，Myselfforsomethingmore。’Hesaidnotwhat，But’Thanks，’sheanswered’Go：wehavebeentoolongTogether：keepyourhoodsabouttheface；
　　Theydosothataffectabstractionhere。
　　Speaklittle；mixnotwiththerest；andholdYourpromise：all，Itrust，mayyetbewell。’
　　Weturnedtogo，butCyriltookthechild，Andheldherroundthekneesagainsthiswaist，Andblewtheswollencheekofatrumpeter，WhilePsychewatchedthem，smiling，andthechildPushedherflathandagainsthisfaceandlaughed；
　　Andthusourconferenceclosed。
　　AndthenwestrolledForhalfthedaythroughstatelytheatresBenchedcrescent—wise。Ineachwesat，weheardThegraveProfessor。OnthelectureslateThecircleroundedunderfemalehandsWithflawlessdemonstration：followedthenAclassiclecture，richinsentiment，WithscrapsofthunderousEpicliltedoutByviolet—hoodedDoctors，elegiesAndquotedodes，andjewelsfive—words—longThatonthestretchedforefingerofallTimeSparkleforever：thenwediptinallThattreatsofwhatsoeveris，thestate，Thetotalchroniclesofman，themind，Themorals，somethingoftheframe，therock，Thestar，thebird，thefish，theshell，theflower，Electric，chemiclaws，andalltherest，Andwhatsoevercanbetaughtandknown；
　　Tilllikethreehorsesthathavebrokenfence，Andgluttedallnightlongbreast—deepincorn，Weissuedgorgedwithknowledge，andIspoke：
　　’Why，Sirs，theydoallthisaswellaswe。’
　　’Theyhuntoldtrails’saidCyril’verywell；
　　Butwhendidwomaneveryetinvent？’
　　’Ungracious!’answeredFlorian；’haveyoulearntNomorefromPsyche’slecture，youthattalkedThetrashthatmademesick，andalmostsad？’
　　’Otrash’hesaid，’butwithakernelinit。
　　ShouldInotcallherwise，whomademewise？
　　Andlearnt？Ilearntmorefromherinaflash，Thaninmybrainpanwereanemptyhull，AndeveryMusetumbledasciencein。
　　Athousandheartsliefallowinthesehalls，AndroundthesehallsathousandbabylovesFlytwangingheadlessarrowsatthehearts，Whencefollowsmanyavacantpang；butO
　　Withme，Sir，enteredinthebiggerboy，TheHeadofallthegolden—shaftedfirm，Thelong—limbedladthathadaPsychetoo；
　　Hecleftmethroughthestomacher；andnowWhatthinkyouofit，Florian？doIchaseThesubstanceortheshadow？willithold？
　　Ihavenosorcerer’smalisononme，NoghostlyhauntingslikehisHighness。I
　　FlattermyselfthatalwayseverywhereIknowthesubstancewhenIseeit。Well，Arecastlesshadows？Threeofthem？IssheThesweetproprietressashadow？Ifnot，Shallthosethreecastlespatchmytatteredcoat？
　　Fordeararethosethreecastlestomywants，AnddearissisterPsychetomyheart，Andtwodearthingsareoneofdoubleworth，AndmuchImighthavesaid，butthatmyzoneUnmannedme：thentheDoctors!OtohearTheDoctors!OtowatchthethirstyplantsImbibing!onceortwiceIthoughttoroar，Tobreakmychain，toshakemymane：butthou，Modulateme，Soulofmincingmimicry!
　　Makeliquidtrebleofthatbassoon，mythroat；
　　AbasethoseeyesthateverlovedtomeetStar—sistersansweringundercrescentbrows；
　　Abatethestride，whichspeaksofman，andlooseAflyingcharmofblusheso’erthischeek，WheretheylikeswallowscomingoutoftimeWillwonderwhytheycame：butharkthebellFordinner，letusgo!’
　　AndinwestreamedAmongthecolumns，pacingstaidandstillBytwosandthrees，tillallfromendtoendWithbeautieseveryshadeofbrownandfairIncoloursgayerthanthemorningmist，Thelonghallglitteredlikeabedofflowers。
　　HowmightamannotwanderfromhiswitsPiercedthroughwitheyes，butthatIkeptmineownIntentonher，whoraptingloriousdreams，Thesecond—sightofsomeAstr鎍nage，Satcompassedwithprofessors：they，thewhile，Discussedadoubtandtostittoandfro：
　　Aclamourthickened，mixtwithinmosttermsOfartandscience：LadyBlanchealoneOffadedformandhaughtiestlineaments，Withallherautumntressesfalselybrown，Shotsidelongdaggersatus，atiger—catInacttospring。
　　AtlastasolemngraceConcluded，andwesoughtthegardens：thereOnewalkedrecitingbyherself，andoneInthishandheldavolumeastoread，Andsmoothedapettedpeacockdownwiththat：
　　Sometoalowsongoaredashallopby，OrunderarchesofthemarblebridgeHung，shadowedfromtheheat：somehidandsoughtIntheorangethickets：otherstostaballAbovethefountain—jets，andbackagainWithlaughter：otherslayaboutthelawns，Oftheoldersort，andmurmuredthattheirMayWaspassing：whatwaslearninguntothem？
　　Theywishedtomarry；theycouldruleahouse；
　　Menhatedlearnedwomen：butwethreeSatmuffledliketheFates；andoftencameMelissahittingallwesawwithshaftsOfgentlesatire，kintocharity，Thatharmednot：thendaydroopt；thechapelbellsCalledus：weleftthewalks；wemixtwiththoseSixhundredmaidenscladinpurestwhite，Beforetwostreamsoflightfromwalltowall，Whilethegreatorganalmostbursthispipes，Groaningforpower，androllingthroughthecourtAlongmelodiousthundertothesoundOfsolemnpsalms，andsilverlitanies，TheworkofIda，tocalldownfromHeavenAblessingonherlaboursfortheworld。
　　Sweetandlow，sweetandlow，Windofthewesternsea，Low，low，breatheandblow，Windofthewesternsea!
　　Overtherollingwatersgo，Comefromthedyingmoon，andblow，Blowhimagaintome；
　　Whilemylittleone，whilemyprettyone，sleeps。
　　Sleepandrest，sleepandrest，Fatherwillcometotheesoon；
　　Rest，rest，onmother’sbreast，Fatherwillcometotheesoon；
　　Fatherwillcometohisbabeinthenest，SilversailsalloutofthewestUnderthesilvermoon：
　　Sleep，mylittleone，sleep，myprettyone，sleep。
　　III
　　MorninthewakeofthemorningstarCamefurrowingalltheorientintogold。
　　Werose，andeachbyotherdrestwithcareDescendedtothecourtthatlaythreepartsInshadow，buttheMuses’headsweretouchedAbovethedarknessfromtheirnativeEast。
　　Therewhilewestoodbesidethefount，andwatchedOrseemedtowatchthedancingbubble，approachedMelissa，tingedwithwanfromlackofsleep，Orgrief，andglowingroundherdewyeyesThecircledIrisofanightoftears；
　　’Andfly，’shecried，’Ofly，whileyetyoumay!
　　Mymotherknows：’andwhenIaskedher’how，’
　　’Myfault’shewept’myfault!andyetnotmine；
　　Yetmineinpart。Ohearme，pardonme。
　　Mymother，’tisherwontfromnighttonightTorailatLadyPsycheandherside。
　　ShesaysthePrincessshouldhavebeentheHead，HerselfandLadyPsychethetwoarms；
　　Andsoitwasagreedwhenfirsttheycame；
　　ButLadyPsychewastherighthandnow，Andtheleft，ornot，orseldomused；
　　Hersmorethanhalfthestudents，allthelove。
　　Andsolastnightshefelltocanvassyou：
　　~Her~countrywomen!shedidnotenvyher。
　　"Whoeversawsuchwildbarbarians？
　　Girls？——morelikemen!"andatthesewordsthesnake，Mysecret，seemedtostirwithinmybreast；
　　Andoh，Sirs，couldIhelpit，butmycheekBegantoburnandburn，andherlynxeyeTofixandmakemehotter，tillshelaughed：
　　"Omarvellouslymodestmaiden，you!
　　Men!girls，likemen!why，iftheyhadbeenmenYouneednotsetyourthoughtsinrubricthusForwholesalecomment。"Pardon，IamshamedThatImustneedsrepeatformyexcuseWhatlookssolittlegraceful："men"（forstillMymotherwentrevolvingontheword）
　　"Andsotheyare，——verylikemenindeed——
　　Andwiththatwomanclosetedforhours!"
　　Thencamethesedreadfulwordsoutonebyone，"Why——these——~are~——men："Ishuddered："andyouknowit。"
　　"Oaskmenothing，"Isaid："Andsheknowstoo，Andsheconcealsit。"SomymotherclutchedThetruthatonce，butwithnowordfromme；
　　AndnowthusearlyrisenshegoestoinformThePrincess：LadyPsychewillbecrushed；
　　Butyoumayyetbesaved，andthereforefly；
　　Buthealmewithyourpardonereyougo。’
　　’Whatpardon，sweetMelissa，forablush？’
　　SaidCyril：’Paleone，blushagain：thanwearThoselilies，betterblushourlivesaway。
　　YetletusbreatheforonehourmoreinHeaven’
　　Headded，’lestsomeclassicAngelspeakInscornofus，"Theymounted，Ganymedes，Totumble，Vulcans，onthesecondmorn。"
　　ButIwillmeltthismarbleintowaxToyieldusfartherfurlough：’andhewent。
　　Melissashookherdoubtfulcurls，andthoughtHescarcewouldprosper。’Tellus，’Florianasked，’Howgrewthisfeudbetwixttherightandleft。’
　　’Olongago，’shesaid，’betwixtthesetwoDivisionsmouldershidden；’tismymother，Toojealous，oftenfretfulasthewindPentinacrevice：muchIbearwithher：
　　Ineverknewmyfather，butshesays（Godhelpher）shewasweddedtoafool；
　　Andstillsherailedagainstthestateofthings。
　　ShehadthecareofLadyIda’syouth，AndfromtheQueen’sdeceaseshebroughtherup。
　　ButwhenyoursistercameshewontheheartOfIda：theywerestilltogether，grew（Forsotheysaidthemselves）inosculated；
　　Consonantchordsthatshivertoonenote；
　　Onemindinallthings：yetmymotherstillAffirmsyourPsychethievedhertheories，Andangledwiththemforherpupil’slove：
　　Shecallsherplagiarist；Iknownotwhat：
　　ButImustgo：Idarenottarry，’andlight，Asfliestheshadowofabird，shefled。
　　ThenmurmuredFloriangazingafterher，’Anopen—heartedmaiden，trueandpure。
　　IfIcouldlove，whythiswereshe：howprettyHerblushingwas，andhowsheblushedagain，AsiftoclosewithCyril’srandomwish：
　　NotlikeyourPrincesscrammedwitherringpride，NorlikepoorPsychewhomshedragsintow。’
　　’Thecrane，’Isaid，’maychatterofthecrane，Thedovemaymurmurofthedove，butI
　　Aneagleclanganeagletothesphere。
　　Myprincess，Omyprincess!truesheerrs，Butinherowngrandway：beingherselfThreetimesmorenoblethanthreescoreofmen，Sheseesherselfineverywomanelse，AndsoshewearshererrorlikeacrownToblindthetruthandme：forher，andher，Hebesaretheytohandambrosia，mixThenectar；but——ahshe——whene’ershemovesTheSamianHer？risesandshespeaksAMemnonsmittenwiththemorningSun。’
　　Sosayingfromthecourtwepaced，andgainedTheterracerangedalongtheNorthernfront，Andleaningthereonthosebalusters，highAbovetheempurpledchampaign，drankthegaleThatblownaboutthefoliageunderneath，Andsatedwiththeinnumerablerose，Beatbalmuponoureyelids。HithercameCyril，andyawning’Ohardtask，’hecried；
　　’Nofightingshadowshere!IforcedawayThroughoppositioncrabbedandgnarled。
　　Bettertoclearprimeforests，heaveandthumpAleagueofstreetinsummersolsticedown，Thanhammeratthisreverendgentlewoman。
　　Iknockedand，bidden，entered；foundherthereAtpointtomove，andsettledinhereyesThegreenmalignantlightofcomingstorm。
　　Sir，Iwascourteous，everyphrasewell—oiled，Asman’scouldbe；yetmaiden—meekIprayedConcealment：shedemandedwhowewere，Andwhywecame？Ifablednothingfair，But，yourexamplepilot，toldherall。
　　Upwentthehushedamazeofhandandeye。
　　ButwhenIdweltuponyouroldaffiance，SheansweredsharplythatItalkedastray。
　　Iurgedthefierceinscriptiononthegate，Andourthreelives。True——wehadlimedourselvesWithopeneyes，andwemusttakethechance。
　　Butsuchextremes，Itoldher，wellmightharmThewoman’scause。"Notmorethannow，"shesaid，"Sopuddledasitiswithfavouritism。"
　　Itriedthemother’sheart。ShamemightbefallMelissa，knowing，sayingnotsheknew：
　　Heranswerwas"Leavemetodealwiththat。"
　　Ispokeofwartocomeandmanydeaths，Andshereplied，herdutywastospeak，Anddutyduty，clearofconsequences。
　　Igrewdiscouraged，Sir；butsinceIknewNorocksohardbutthatalittlewaveMaybeatadmissioninathousandyears，Irecommenced；"Decidenotereyoupause。
　　Ifindyouherebutinthesecondplace，Somesaythethird——theauthenticfoundressyou。
　　Iofferboldly：wewillseatyouhighest：
　　Winkatouradvent：helpmyprincetogainHisrightfulbride，andhereIpromiseyouSomepalaceinourland，whereyoushallreignTheheadandheartofallourfairshe—world，AndyourgreatnameflowonwithbroadeningtimeForever。"Well，shebalancedthisalittle，Andtoldmeshewouldanswerustoday，meantimebemute：thusmuch，normoreIgained。’
　　Heceasing，cameamessagefromtheHead。
　　’ThatafternoonthePrincessrodetotakeThedipofcertainstratatotheNorth。
　　Wouldwegowithher？weshouldfindthelandWorthseeing；andtherivermadeafallOutyonder：’thenshepointedontowhereAdoublehillranuphisfurrowyforksBeyondthethick—leavedplatansofthevale。
　　Agreedto，this，thedayfledonthroughallItsrangeofdutiestotheappointedhour。
　　Thensummonedtotheporchwewent。ShestoodAmonghermaidens，higherbythehead，Herbackagainstapillar，herfootononeOfthosetameleopards。KittenlikeherolledAndpawedabouthersandal。Idrewnear；
　　Igazed。OnasuddenmystrangeseizurecameUponme，theweirdvisionofourhouse：
　　ThePrincessIdaseemedahollowshow，Hergay—furredcatsapaintedfantasy，Hercollegeandhermaidens，emptymasks，AndImyselftheshadowofadream，Forallthingswereandwerenot。YetIfeltMyheartbeatthickwithpassionandwithawe；
　　ThenfrommybreasttheinvoluntarysighBrake，asshesmotemewiththelightofeyesThatlentmykneedesiretokneel，andshookMypulses，tilltohorsewegot，andsoWentforthinlongretinuefollowingupTheriverasitnarrowedtothehills。