Irodebesideherandtomeshesaid：
　　’Ofriend，wetrustthatyouesteemedusnotTooharshtoyourcompanionyestermorn；
　　Unwillinglywespake。’’No——nottoher，’
　　Ianswered，’buttooneofwhomwespakeYourHighnessmighthaveseemedthethingyousay。’
　　’Again？’shecried，’areyouambassadressesFromhimtome？wegiveyou，beingstrange，Alicense：speak，andletthetopicdie。’
　　IstammeredthatIknewhim——couldhavewished——
　　’Ourkingexpects——wastherenoprecontract？
　　Thereisnotruer—hearted——ah，youseemAllheprefigured，andhecouldnotseeThebirdofpassageflyingsouthbutlongedTofollow：surely，ifyourHighnesskeepYourpurport，youwillshockhimeventodeath，Orbasercourses，childrenofdespair。’
　　’Poorboy，’shesaid，’canhenotread——nobooks？
　　Quoit，tennis，ball——nogames？nordealsinthatWhichmendelightin，martialexercise？
　　Tonurseablindideallikeagirl，Methinksheseemsnobetterthanagirl；
　　Asgirlswereonce，asweourselfhavebeen：
　　Wehadourdreams；perhapshemixtwiththem：
　　Wetouchonourdeadself，norshuntodoit，Beingother——sincewelearntourmeaninghere，Toliftthewoman’sfallendivinityUponanevenpedestalwithman。’
　　Shepaused，andaddedwithahaughtiersmile’Andastoprecontracts，wemove，myfriend，Atnoman’sbeck，butknowourselfandthee，OVashti，nobleVashti!SummonedoutShekeptherstate，andleftthedrunkenkingTobrawlatShushanunderneaththepalms。’
　　’AlasyourHighnessbreathesfullEast，’Isaid，’Onthatwhichleanstoyou。IknowthePrince，Iprizehistruth：andthenhowvastaworkToassailthisgraypre雖inenceofman!
　　Yougrantmelicense；mightIuseit？think；
　　Erehalfbedoneperchanceyourlifemayfail；
　　Thencomesthefeeblerheiressofyourplan，Andtakesandruinsall；andthusyourpainsMayonlymakethatfootprintuponsandWhichold—recurringwavesofprejudiceResmoothtonothing：mightIdreadthatyou，WithonlyFameforspouseandyourgreatdeedsForissue，yetmayliveinvain，andmiss，Meanwhile，whateverywomancountsherdue，Love，children，happiness？’
　　Andsheexclaimed，’Peace，youyoungsavageoftheNorthernwild!
　　What!thoughyourPrince’slovewerelikeaGod’s，Havewenotmadeourselfthesacrifice？
　　Youareboldindeed：wearenottalkedtothus：
　　Yetwillwesayforchildren，wouldtheygrewLikefield—flowerseverywhere!welikethemwell：
　　Butchildrendie；andletmetellyou，girl，Howe’eryoubabble，greatdeedscannotdie；
　　TheywiththesunandmoonrenewtheirlightForever，blessingthosethatlookonthem。
　　Children——thatmenmaypluckthemfromourhearts，Killuswithpity，breakuswithourselves——
　　O——children——thereisnothinguponearthMoremiserablethanshethathasasonAndseeshimerr：norwouldweworkforfame；
　　ThoughsheperhapsmightreaptheapplauseofGreat，WhoearnstheonePOUSTOwhenceafter—handsMaymovetheworld，thoughsheherselfeffectButlittle：whereforeupandact，norshrinkForfearoursolidaimbedissipatedByfrailsuccessors。Would，indeed，wehadbeen，Inlieuofmanymortalflies，araceOfgiantsliving，each，athousandyears，Thatwemightseeourownworkout，andwatchThesandyfootprinthardenintostone。’
　　Ianswerednothing，doubtfulinmyselfIfthatstrangePoet—princesswithhergrandImaginationsmightatallbewon。
　　Andshebrokeoutinterpretingmythoughts：
　　’Nodoubtweseemakindofmonstertoyou；
　　Weareusedtothat：forwomen，uptillthisCrampedunderworsethanSouth—sea—isletaboo，Dwarfsofthegyn鎐eum，failsofarInhighdesire，theyknownot，cannotguessHowmuchtheirwelfareisapassiontous。
　　Ifwecouldgivethemsurer，quickerproof——
　　OhifourendwerelessachievableByslowapproaches，thanbysingleactOfimmolation，anyphaseofdeath，Wewereasprompttospringagainstthepikes，Ordownthefierygulfastalkofit，Tocompassourdearsisters’liberties。’
　　Shebowedasiftoveilanobletear；
　　AndupwecametowheretheriverslopedToplungeincataract，shatteringonblackblocksAbreadthofthunder。O’eritshookthewoods，Anddancedthecolour，and，below，stuckoutThebonesofsomevastbulkthatlivedandroaredBeforemanwas。Shegazedawhileandsaid，’Astheserudebonestous，arewetoherThatwillbe。’’Darewedreamofthat，’Iasked，’Whichwroughtus，astheworkmanandhiswork，Thatpracticebetters？’’How，’shecried，’youloveThemetaphysics!readandearnourprize，Agoldenbrooch：beneathanemeraldplaneSitsDiotima，teachinghimthatdiedOfhemlock；ourdevice；wroughttothelife；
　　Sheraptuponhersubject，heonher：
　　Forthereareschoolsforall。’’Andyet’Isaid’MethinksIhavenotfoundamongthemallOneanatomic。’’Nay，wethoughtofthat，’
　　Sheanswered，’butitpleasedusnot：intruthWeshudderbuttodreamourmaidsshouldapeThosemonstrousmalesthatcarvethelivinghound，Andcramhimwiththefragmentsofthegrave，Orinthedarkdissolvinghumanheart，Andholysecretsofthismicrocosm，Dabblingashamelesshandwithshamefuljest，Encarnalizetheirspirits：yetweknowKnowledgeisknowledge，andthismatterhangs：
　　Howbeitourself，foreseeingcasualty，Norwillingmenshouldcomeamongus，learnt，Formanywearymoonsbeforewecame，Thiscraftofhealing。Wereyousick，ourselfWouldtenduponyou。Toyourquestionnow，Whichtouchesontheworkmanandhiswork。
　　Lettherebelightandtherewaslight：’tisso：
　　Forwas，andis，andwillbe，arebutis；
　　Andallcreationisoneactatonce，Thebirthoflight：butwethatarenotall，Asparts，canseebutparts，nowthis，nowthat，Andlive，perforce，fromthoughttothought，andmakeOneactaphantomofsuccession：thusOurweaknesssomehowshapestheshadow，Time；
　　Butintheshadowwillwework，andmouldThewomantothefullerday。’
　　ShespakeWithkindledeyes；werodealeaguebeyond，And，o’erabridgeofpinewoodcrossing，cameOnflowerylevelsunderneaththecrag，Fullofallbeauty。’Ohowsweet’Isaid（ForIwashalf—obliviousofmymask）
　　’Tolingerherewithonethatlovedus。’’Yea，’
　　Sheanswered，’orwithfairphilosophiesThatliftthefancy；forindeedthesefieldsArelovely，loveliernottheElysianlawns，WherepacedtheDemigodsofold，andsawThesoftwhitevapourstreakthecrown鑔towersBuilttotheSun：’then，turningtohermaids，’Pitchourpavilionhereuponthesward；
　　Layouttheviands。’Attheword，theyraisedAtentofsatin，elaboratelywroughtWithfairCorinna’striumph；hereshestood，Engirtwithmanyafloridmaiden—cheek，Thewoman—conqueror；woman—conqueredthereThebeardedVictoroften—thousandhymns，Andallthemenmournedathisside：butweSetforthtoclimb；then，climbing，CyrilkeptWithPsyche，withMelissaFlorian，I
　　Withmineaffianced。ManyalittlehandGlancedlikeatouchofsunshineontherocks，ManyalightfootshonelikeajewelsetInthedarkcrag：andthenweturned，wewoundAboutthecliffs，thecopses，outandin，Hammeringandclinking，chatteringstonynamesOfshalesandhornblende，ragandtrapandtuff，Amygdaloidandtrachyte，tilltheSunGrewbroadertowardhisdeathandfell，andallTherosyheightscameoutabovethelawns。
　　ThesplendourfallsoncastlewallsAndsnowysummitsoldinstory：
　　Thelonglightshakesacrossthelakes，Andthewildcataractleapsinglory。
　　Blow，bugle，blow，setthewildechoesflying，Blow，bugle；answer，echoes，dying，dying，dying。
　　Ohark，Ohear!howthinandclear，Andthinner，clearer，farthergoing!
　　OsweetandfarfromcliffandscarThehornsofElflandfaintlyblowing!
　　Blow，letushearthepurpleglensreplying：
　　Blow，bugle；answer，echoes，dying，dying，dying。
　　Olove，theydieinyonrichsky，Theyfaintonhillorfieldorriver：
　　Ourechoesrollfromsoultosoul，Andgrowforeverandforever。
　　Blow，bugle，blow，setthewildechoesflying，Andanswer，echoes，answer，dying，dying，dying。
　　IV
　　’TheresinksthenebulousstarwecalltheSun，Ifthathypothesisoftheirsbesound’
　　SaidIda；’letusdownandrest；’andweDownfromtheleanandwrinkledprecipices，Byeverycoppice—featheredchasmandcleft，DroptthroughtheambrosialgloomtowherebelowNobiggerthanaglow—wormshonethetentLamp—litfromtheinner。Oncesheleanedonme，Descending；onceortwiceshelentherhand，Andblissfulpalpitationsintheblood，Stirringasuddentransportroseandfell。
　　Butwhenweplantedlevelfeet，anddiptBeneaththesatindomeandenteredin，ThereleaningdeepinbroidereddownwesankOurelbows：onatripodinthemidstAfragrantflamerose，andbeforeusglowedFruit，blossom，viand，amberwine，andgold。
　　Thenshe，’Letsomeonesingtous：lightliermoveTheminutesfledgedwithmusic：’andamaid，Ofthosebesideher，smoteherharp，andsang。
　　’Tears，idletears，Iknownotwhattheymean，TearsfromthedepthofsomedivinedespairRiseintheheart，andgathertotheeyes，InlookingonthehappyAutumn—fields，Andthinkingofthedaysthatarenomore。
　　’Freshasthefirstbeamglitteringonasail，Thatbringsourfriendsupfromtheunderworld，SadasthelastwhichreddensoveroneThatsinkswithallwelovebelowtheverge；
　　Sosad，sofresh，thedaysthatarenomore。
　　’Ah，sadandstrangeasindarksummerdawnsTheearliestpipeofhalf—awakenedbirdsTodyingears，whenuntodyingeyesThecasementslowlygrowsaglimmeringsquare；
　　Sosad，sostrange，thedaysthatarenomore。
　　’Dearasrememberedkissesafterdeath，AndsweetasthosebyhopelessfancyfeignedOnlipsthatareforothers；deepaslove，Deepasfirstlove，andwildwithallregret；
　　ODeathinLife，thedaysthatarenomore。’
　　Sheendedwithsuchpassionthatthetear，Shesangof，shookandfell，anerringpearlLostinherbosom：butwithsomedisdainAnsweredthePrincess，’IfindeedtherehauntAboutthemoulderedlodgesofthePastSosweetavoiceandvague，fataltomen，WellneedsitweshouldcramourearswithwoolAndsopaceby：butthinearefancieshatchedInsilken—foldedidleness；norisitWisertoweepatrueoccasionlost，Buttrimoursails，andletoldbygonesbe，WhiledownthestreamsthatfloatuseachandallTotheissue，goes，likeglitteringbergsofice，Throneafterthrone，andmoltenonthewasteBecomesacloud：forallthingsservetheirtimeTowardthatgreatyearofequalmightsandrights，NorwouldIfightwithironlaws，intheendFoundgolden：letthepastbepast；letbeTheircancelledBabels：thoughtheroughkexbreakThestarredmosaic，andthebeard—blowngoatHangontheshaft，andthewildfigtreesplitTheirmonstrousidols，carenotwhilewehearAtrumpetinthedistancepealingnewsOfbetter，andHope，apoisingeagle，burnsAbovetheunrisenmorrow：’thentome；
　　’Knowyounosongofyourownland，’shesaid，’Notsuchasmoansabouttheretrospect，ButdealswiththeotherdistanceandthehuesOfpromise；notadeath’s—headatthewine。’
　　ThenIrememberedonemyselfhadmade，WhattimeIwatchedtheswallowwingingsouthFrommineownland，partmadelongsince，andpartNowwhileIsang，andmaidenlikeasfarAsIcouldapetheirtreble，didIsing。
　　’OSwallow，Swallow，flying，flyingSouth，Flytoher，andfalluponhergildedeaves，Andtellher，tellher，whatItelltothee。
　　’Otellher，Swallow，thouthatknowesteach，ThatbrightandfierceandfickleistheSouth，AnddarkandtrueandtenderistheNorth。
　　’OSwallow，Swallow，ifIcouldfollow，andlightUponherlattice，Iwouldpipeandtrill，Andcheepandtwittertwentymillionloves。
　　’OwereIthouthatshemighttakemein，Andlaymeonherbosom，andherheartWouldrockthesnowycradletillIdied。
　　’Whylingerethshetoclotheherheartwithlove，DelayingasthetenderashdelaysToclotheherself，whenallthewoodsaregreen？
　　’Otellher，Swallow，thatthybroodisflown：
　　Saytoher，IdobutwantonintheSouth，ButintheNorthlongsincemynestismade。
　　’Otellher，briefislifebutloveislong，AndbriefthesunofsummerintheNorth，AndbriefthemoonofbeautyintheSouth。
　　’OSwallow，flyingfromthegoldenwoods，Flytoher，andpipeandwooher，andmakehermine，Andtellher，tellher，thatIfollowthee。’
　　Iceased，andalltheladies，eachateach，LiketheIthacensiansuitorsinoldtime，Staredwithgreateyes，andlaughedwithalienlips，Andknewnotwhattheymeant；forstillmyvoiceRangfalse：butsmiling’Notforthee，’shesaid，OBulbul，anyroseofGulistanShallburstherveil：marsh—divers，rather，maid，Shallcroaktheesister，orthemeadow—crakeGrateherharshkindredinthegrass：andthisAmerelove—poem!Oforsuch，myfriend，Weholdthemslight：theymindusofthetimeWhenwemadebricksinEgypt。Knavesaremen，Thatluteandflutefantastictenderness，Anddressthevictimtotheofferingup，AndpaintthegatesofHellwithParadise，Andplaytheslavetogainthetyranny。
　　Poorsoul!Ihadamaidofhonouronce；
　　Shewepthertrueeyesblindforsuchaone，Arogueofcanzonetsandserenades。
　　Ilovedher。Peacebewithher。Sheisdead。
　　Sotheyblasphemethemuse!ButgreatissongUsedtogreatends：ourselfhaveoftentriedValkyrianhymns，orintorhythmhavedashedThepassionoftheprophetess；forsongIsdueruntofreedom，forceandgrowthOfspiritthantojunketingandlove。
　　Loveisit？Wouldthissamemock—love，andthisMock—Hymenwerelaiduplikewinterbats，Tillallmengrewtorateusatourworth，Notvassalstobebeat，norprettybabesTobedandled，no，butlivingwills，andspheredWholeinourselvesandowedtonone。Enough!
　　Butnowtoleavenplaywithprofit，you，Knowyounosong，thetruegrowthofyoursoil，Thatgivesthemannersofyourcountry—women？’
　　ShespokeandturnedhersumptuousheadwitheyesOfshiningexpectationfixtonmine。
　　ThenwhileIdraggedmybrainsforsuchasong，Cyril，withwhomthebell—mouthedglasshadwrought，Ormasteredbythesenseofsport，beganTotrollacareless，carelesstavern—catchOfMollandMeg，andstrangeexperiencesUnmeetforladies。Floriannoddedathim，Ifrowning；Psycheflushedandwannedandshook；
　　ThelilylikeMelissadroopedherbrows；
　　’Forbear，’thePrincesscried；’Forbear，Sir’I；
　　Andheatedthroughandthroughwithwrathandlove，Ismotehimonthebreast；hestartedup；
　　Thereroseashriekasofacitysacked；
　　Melissaclamoured’Fleethedeath；’’Tohorse’
　　SaidIda；’home!tohorse!’andfled，asfliesAtroopofsnowydovesathwartthedusk，Whensomeonebattersatthedovecote—doors，Disorderlythewomen。AloneIstoodWithFlorian，cursingCyril，vextatheart，Inthepavilion：therelikepartinghopesIheardthempassingfromme：hoofbyhoof，Andeveryhoofaknelltomydesires，Clangedonthebridge；andthenanothershriek，’TheHead，theHead，thePrincess，OtheHead!’
　　Forblindwithrageshemissedtheplank，androlledIntheriver。OutIsprangfromglowtogloom：
　　TherewhirledherwhiterobelikeablossomedbranchRapttothehorriblefall：aglanceIgave，Nomore；butwoman—vestedasIwasPlunged；andtheflooddrew；yetIcaughther；thenOaringonearm，andbearinginmyleftTheweightofallthehopesofhalftheworld，Strovetobuffettolandinvain。AtreeWashalf—disrootedfromhisplaceandstoopedTowrenchhisdarklocksinthegurglingwaveMid—channel。Rightonthiswedroveandcaught，AndgraspingdowntheboughsIgainedtheshore。
　　TherestoodhermaidensglimmeringlygroupedInthehollowbank。OnereachingforwarddrewMyburthenfromminearms；theycried’shelives：’
　　Theyboreherbackintothetent：butI，Somuchakindofshamewithinmewrought，Notyetenduredtomeetheropeningeyes，Norfoundmyfriends；butpushedaloneonfoot（ForsinceherhorsewaslostIlefthermine）
　　Acrossthewoods，andlessfromIndiancraftThanbeelikeinstincthiveward，foundatlengthThegardenportals。Twogreatstatues，ArtAndScience，Caryatids，liftedupAweightofemblem，andbetwixtwerevalvesOfopen—workinwhichthehunterruedHisrashintrusion，manlike，buthisbrowsHadsprouted，andthebranchesthereuponSpreadoutattop，andgrimlyspikedthegates。
　　Alittlespacewasleftbetweenthehorns，ThroughwhichIclamberedo’erattopwithpain，Droptonthesward，andupthelindenwalks，And，tostonthoughtsthatchangedfromhuetohue，Nowporingontheglowworm，nowthestar，Ipacedtheterrace，tilltheBearhadwheeledThroughagreatarchissevenslowsuns。
　　AstepOflightestecho，thenaloftierformThanfemale，movingthroughtheuncertaingloom，Disturbedmewiththedoubt’ifthiswereshe，’
　　ButitwasFlorian。’HistOHist，’hesaid，’Theyseekus：outsolateisoutofrules。
　　Moreover"seizethestrangers"isthecry。
　　Howcameyouhere？’Itoldhim：’I’saidhe，’Lastofthetrain，amoralleper，I，Towhomnonespake，half—sickatheart，returned。
　　ArrivingallconfusedamongtherestWithhoodedbrowsIcreptintothehall，And，couchedbehindaJudith，underneathTheheadofHolofernespeepedandsaw。
　　Girlaftergirlwascalledtotrial：eachDisclaimedallknowledgeofus：lastofall，Melissa：trustme，Sir，Ipitiedher。
　　She，questionedifsheknewusmen，atfirstWassilent；closerprest，denieditnot：
　　Andthen，demandedifhermotherknew，OrPsyche，sheaffirmednot，ordenied：
　　FromwhencetheRoyalmind，familiarwithher，Easilygatheredeitherguilt。ShesentForPsyche，butshewasnotthere；shecalledForPsyche’schildtocastitfromthedoors；
　　ShesentforBlanchetoaccuseherfacetoface；
　　AndIsliptout：butwhitherwillyounow？
　　AndwherearePsyche，Cyril？botharefled：
　　What，iftogether？thatwerenotsowell。
　　Wouldratherwehadnevercome!IdreadHiswildness，andthechancesofthedark。’
　　’Andyet，’Isaid，’youwronghimmorethanI
　　Thatstruckhim：thisispropertotheclown，Thoughsmocked，orfurredandpurpled，stilltheclown，Toharmthethingthattrustshim，andtoshameThatwhichhesaysheloves：forCyril，howe’erHedealinfrolic，astonight——thesongMighthavebeenworseandsinnedingrosserlipsBeyondallpardon——asitis，IholdTheseflashesonthesurfacearenothe。
　　Hehasasolidbaseoftemperament：
　　ButasthewaterlilystartsandslidesUponthelevelinlittlepuffsofwind，Thoughanchoredtothebottom，suchishe。’
　　ScarcehadIceasedwhenfromatamarisknearTwoProctorsleaptuponus，crying，’Names：’
　　He，standingstill，wasclutched；butIbeganTothridthemusky—circledmazes，windAnddoubleinandouttheboles，andraceByallthefountains：fleetIwasoffoot：
　　Beforemeshoweredtheroseinflakes；behindIheardthepuffedpursuer；atmineearBubbledthenightingaleandheedednot，Andsecretlaughtertickledallmysoul。
　　AtlastIhookedmyankleinavine，ThatclasptthefeetofaMnemosyne，Andfallingonmyfacewascaughtandknown。
　　TheyhaledustothePrincesswhereshesatHighinthehall：aboveherdroopedalamp，AndmadethesinglejewelonherbrowBurnlikethemysticfireonamast—head，Prophetofstorm：ahandmaidoneachsideBowedtowardher，combingoutherlongblackhairDampfromtheriver；andclosebehindherstoodEightdaughtersoftheplough，strongerthanmen，Hugewomenblowzedwithhealth，andwind，andrain，Andlabour。EachwaslikeaDruidrock；
　　OrlikeaspireoflandthatstandsapartCleftfromthemain，andwailedaboutwithmews。
　　Then，aswecame，thecrowddividingcloveAnadventtothethrone：andtherebeside，Half—nakedasifcaughtatoncefrombedAndtumbledonthepurplefootcloth，layThelily—shiningchild；andontheleft，Bowedonherpalmsandfoldedupfromwrong，Herroundwhiteshouldershakenwithhersobs，Melissaknelt；butLadyBlancheerectStoodupandspake，anaffluentorator。
　　’Itwasnotthus，OPrincess，inolddays：
　　Youprizedmycounsel，liveduponmylips：
　　IledyouthentoalltheCastalies；
　　IfedyouwiththemilkofeveryMuse；
　　Ilovedyoulikethiskneeler，andyoumeYoursecondmother：thoseweregracioustimes。
　　Thencameyournewfriend：youbegantochange——
　　Isawitandgrieved——toslackenandtocool；
　　TilltakenwithherseemingopennessYouturnedyourwarmercurrentsalltoher，Tomeyoufroze：thiswasmymeedforall。
　　YetIboreupinpartfromancientlove，AndpartlythatIhopedtowinyouback，Andpartlyconsciousofmyowndeserts，Andpartlythatyouweremycivilhead，Andchieflyyouwerebornforsomethinggreat，InwhichImightyourfellow—workerbe，Whentimeshouldserve；andthusanobleschemeGrewupfromseedwetwolongsincehadsown；
　　Inustruegrowth，inheraJonah’sgourd，Upinonenightandduetosuddensun：
　　Wetookthispalace；butevenfromthefirstYoustoodinyourownlightanddarkenedmine。
　　WhatstudentcamebutthatyouplanedherpathToLadyPsyche，younger，notsowise，Aforeigner，andIyourcountrywoman，Iyouroldfriendandtried，shenewinall？
　　Butstillherlistswereswelledandminewerelean；
　　YetIboreupinhopeshewouldbeknown：
　　Thencamethesewolves：~they~knewher：~they~endured，Long—closetedwithhertheyestermorn，Totellherwhattheywere，andshetohear：
　　Andmenonetold：notlesstoaneyelikemineAlidlesswatcherofthepublicweal，Lastnight，theirmaskwaspatent，andmyfootWastoyou：butIthoughtagain：IfearedTomeetacold"Wethankyou，weshallhearofitFromLadyPsyche："youhadgonetoher，Shetold，perforce；andwinningeasygraceNodoubt，forslightdelay，remainedamongusInouryoungnurserystillunknown，thestemLessgrainthantouchwood，whilemyhonestheatWereallmiscountedasmalignanthasteTopushmyrivaloutofplaceandpower。
　　Butpublicuserequiredsheshouldbeknown；
　　Andsincemyoathwasta’enforpublicuse，Ibroketheletterofittokeepthesense。
　　Ispokenotthenatfirst，butwatchedthemwell，Sawthattheykeptapart，nomischiefdone；
　　Andyetthisday（thoughyoushouldhatemeforit）
　　Icametotellyou；foundthatyouhadgone，Riddentothehills，shelikewise：now，Ithought，Thatsurelyshewillspeak；ifnot，thenI：
　　Didshe？Thesemonstersblazonedwhattheywere，Accordingtothecoarsenessoftheirkind，ForthusIhear；andknownatlast（mywork）
　　Andfullofcowardiceandguiltyshame，Igrantinhersomesenseofshame，sheflies；
　　AndIremainonwhomtowreakyourrage，I，thathavelentmylifetobuildupyours，Ithathavewastedherehealth，wealth，andtime，Andtalent，I——youknowit——Iwillnotboast：
　　Dismissme，andIprophesyyourplan，Divorcedfrommyexperience，willbechaffForeverygustofchance，andmenwillsayWedidnotknowthereallight，butchasedThewispthatflickerswherenofootcantread。’
　　Sheceased：thePrincessansweredcoldly，’Good：
　　Youroathisbroken：wedismissyou：go。
　　Forthislostlamb（shepointedtothechild）
　　Ourmindischanged：wetakeittoourself。’
　　ThereattheLadystretchedavulturethroat，Andshotfromcrookedlipsahaggardsmile。
　　’Theplanwasmine。Ibuiltthenest’shesaid’Tohatchthecuckoo。Rise!’andstoopedtoupdragMelissa：she，halfonhermotherpropt，Half—droopingfromher，turnedherface，andcastAliquidlookonIda，fullofprayer，WhichmeltedFlorian’sfancyasshehung，ANiob隺ndaughter，onearmout，AppealingtotheboltsofHeaven；andwhileWegazeduponhercamealittlestirAboutthedoors，andonasuddenrushedAmongus，outofbreathasonepursued，Awoman—postinflyingraiment。FearStaredinhereyes，andchalkedherface，andwingedHertransittothethrone，wherebyshefellDeliveringsealeddispatcheswhichtheHeadTookhalf—amazed，andinherlion’smoodToreopen，silentwewithblindsurmiseRegarding，whilesheread，tilloverbrowAndcheekandbosombrakethewrathfulbloomAsofsomefireagainstastormycloud，Whenthewildpeasantrightshimself，therickFlames，andhisangerreddensintheheavens；
　　Forangermostitseemed，whilenowherbreast，Beatenwithsomegreatpassionatherheart，Palpitated，herhandshook，andweheardInthedeadhushthepapersthatsheheldRustle：atoncethelostlambatherfeetSentoutabitterbleatingforitsdam；
　　Theplaintivecryjarredonherire；shecrushedThescrollstogether，madeasuddenturnAsiftospeak，but，utterancefailingher，Shewhirledthemontome，aswhoshouldsay’Read，’andIread——twoletters——onehersire’s。
　　’Fairdaughter，whenwesentthePrinceyourway，Weknewnotyourungraciouslaws，whichlearnt，We，consciousofwhattemperyouarebuilt，Cameallinhastetohinderwrong，butfellIntohisfather’shands，whohasthisnight，Youlyingcloseuponhisterritory，Sliptroundandinthedarkinvestedyou，Andherehekeepsmehostageforhisson。’
　　Thesecondwasmyfather’srunningthus：
　　’Youhaveourson：touchnotahairofhishead：
　　Renderhimupunscathed：givehimyourhand：
　　Cleavetoyourcontract：thoughindeedwehearYouholdthewomanisthebetterman；
　　Arampantheresy，suchasifitspreadWouldmakeallwomenkickagainsttheirLordsThroughalltheworld，andwhichmightwelldeserveThatwethisnightshouldpluckyourpalacedown；
　　Andwewilldoit，unlessyousendusbackOurson，ontheinstant，whole。’
　　SofarIread；
　　Andthenstoodupandspokeimpetuously。
　　’Onottopryandpeeronyourreserve，Butledbygoldenwishes，andahopeThechildofregalcompact，didIbreakYourprecinct；notascornerofyoursexButvenerator，zealousitshouldbeAllthatitmightbe：hearme，forIbear，Thoughman，yethuman，whatsoe’eryourwrongs，FromtheflaxencurltothegraylockalifeLessminethanyours：mynursewouldtellmeofyou；
　　Ibabbledforyou，asbabiesforthemoon，Vaguebrightness；whenaboy，youstoopedtomeFromallhighplaces，livedinallfairlights，CameinlongbreezesraptfrominmostsouthAndblowntoinmostnorth；ateveanddawnWithIda，Ida，Ida，rangthewoods；
　　TheleaderwildswaninamongthestarsWouldclangit，andlaptinwreathsofglowwormlightThemellowbreakermurmuredIda。Now，BecauseIwouldhavereachedyou，hadyoubeenSpheredupwithCassiop雐a，ortheenthronedPersephon？inHades，nowatlength，Thosewintersofabeyanceallwornout，AmanIcametoseeyou：butindeed，NotinthisfrequencecanIlendfulltongue，OnobleIda，tothosethoughtsthatwaitOnyou，theircentre：letmesaybutthis，Thatmanyafamousmanandwoman，townAndlandskip，haveIheardof，afterseenThedwarfsofpresage：thoughwhenknown，theregrewAnotherkindofbeautyindetailMadethemworthknowing；butinyourIfoundMyboyishdreaminvolvedanddazzleddownAndmastered，whilethatafter—beautymakesSuchheadfromacttoact，fromhourtohour，Withinme，thatexceptyouslaymehere，Accordingtoyourbitterstatute—book，Icannotceasetofollowyou，astheysayThesealdoesmusic；whodesireyoumoreThangrowingboystheirmanhood；dyinglips，Withmanythousandmatterslefttodo，Thebreathoflife；Omorethanpoormenwealth，Thansickmenhealth——yours，yours，notmine——buthalfWithoutyou；withyou，whole；andofthosehalvesYouworthiest；andhowe’eryoublockandbarYourheartwithsystemoutfrommine，IholdThatitbecomesnomantonursedespair，ButintheteethofclenchedantagonismsTofollowuptheworthiesttillhedie：
　　YetthatIcamenotallunauthorizedBeholdyourfather’sletter。’
　　OnonekneeKneeling，Igaveit，whichshecaught，anddashedUnopenedatherfeet：atideoffierceInvectiveseemedtowaitbehindherlips，AswaitsariverlevelwiththedamReadytoburstandfloodtheworldwithfoam：
　　Andsoshewouldhavespoken，butthereroseAhubbubinthecourtofhalfthemaidsGatheredtogether：fromtheilluminedhallLonglanesofsplendourslantedo’erapressOfsnowyshoulders，thickasherdedewes，Andrainbowrobes，andgemsandgemlikeeyes，Andgoldandgoldenheads；theytoandfroFluctuated，asflowersinstorm，somered，somepale，Allopen—mouthed，allgazingtothelight，Somecryingtherewasanarmyintheland，Andsomethatmenwereintheverywalls，Andsometheycarednot；tillaclamourgrewAsofanew—worldBabel，woman—built，Andworse—confounded：highabovethemstoodTheplacidmarbleMuses，lookingpeace。
　　Notpeaceshelooked，theHead：butrisingupRobedinthelongnightofherdeephair，soTotheopenwindowmoved，remainingthereFixtlikeabeacon—towerabovethewavesOftempest，whenthecrimson—rollingeyeGlaresruin，andthewildbirdsonthelightDashthemselvesdead。ShestretchedherarmsandcalledAcrossthetumultandthetumultfell。
　　’Whatfearye，brawlers？amnotIyourHead？
　　Onme，me，me，thestormfirstbreaks：~I~dareAllthesemalethunderbolts：whatisityefear？
　　Peace!therearethosetoavengeusandtheycome：
　　Ifnot，——myselfwerelikeenough，Ogirls，Tounfurlthemaidenbannerofourrights，Andcladinironbursttheranksofwar，Or，falling，promartyrofourcause，Die：yetIblameyounotsomuchforfear：
　　SixthousandyearsoffearhavemadeyouthatFromwhichIwouldredeemyou：butforthoseThatstirthishubbub——youandyou——IknowYourfacesthereinthecrowd——tomorrowmornWeholdagreatconvention：thenshalltheyThatlovetheirvoicesmorethanduty，learnWithwhomtheydeal，dismissedinshametoliveNowiserthantheirmothers，householdstuff，Livechattels，mincersofeachother’sfame，Fullofweakpoison，turnspitsfortheclown，Thedrunkard’sfootball，laughing—stocksofTime，WhosebrainsareintheirhandsandintheirheelsButfittoflaunt，todress，todance，tothrum，Totramp，toscream，toburnish，andtoscour，Foreverslavesathomeandfoolsabroad。’
　　She，ending，wavedherhands：thereatthecrowdMuttering，dissolved：thenwithasmile，thatlookedAstrokeofcruelsunshineonthecliff，WhenalltheglensaredrownedinazuregloomOfthunder—shower，shefloatedtousandsaid：
　　’Youhavedonewellandlikeagentleman，Andlikeaprince：youhaveourthanksforall：
　　Andyoulookwelltooinyourwoman’sdress：
　　Wellhaveyoudoneandlikeagentleman。
　　Yousavedourlife：weoweyoubitterthanks：
　　Betterhavediedandspiltourbonesintheflood——
　　Thenmenhadsaid——butnow——WhathindersmeTotakesuchbloodyvengeanceonyouboth？——
　　Yetsinceourfather——Waspsinourgoodhive，Youwould—bequenchersofthelighttobe，Barbarians，grosserthanyournativebears——
　　OwouldIhadhissceptreforonehour!
　　Youthathavedaredtobreakourbound，andgulledOurservants，wrongedandliedandthwartedus——
　　~I~wedwiththee!~I~boundbyprecontractYourbride，ourbondslave!notthoughallthegoldThatveinstheworldwerepackedtomakeyourcrown，Andeveryspokentongueshouldlordyou。Sir，Yourfalsehoodandyourselfarehatefultous：
　　Itrampleonyouroffersandonyou：
　　Begone：wewillnotlookuponyoumore。
　　Here，pushthemoutatgates。’
　　Inwrathshespake。
　　ThenthoseeightmightydaughtersoftheploughBenttheirbroadfacestowardusandaddressedTheirmotion：twiceIsoughttopleadmycause，Butonmyshoulderhungtheirheavyhands，Theweightofdestiny：sofromherfaceTheypushedus，downthesteps，andthroughthecourt，Andwithgrimlaughterthrustusoutatgates。
　　WecrossedthestreetandgainedapettymoundBeyondit，whencewesawthelightsandheardthevoicesmurmuring。WhileIlistened，cameOnasuddentheweirdseizureandthedoubt：
　　Iseemedtomoveamongaworldofghosts；
　　ThePrincesswithhermonstrouswoman—guard，Thejestandearnestworkingsidebyside，ThecataractandthetumultandthekingsWereshadows；andthelongfantasticnightWithallitsdoingshadandhadnotbeen，Andallthingswereandwerenot。
　　ThiswentbyAsstrangelyasitcame，andonmyspiritsSettledagentlecloudofmelancholy；
　　Notlong；Ishookitoff；forspiteofdoubtsAndsuddenghostlyshadowingsIwasoneTowhomthetouchofallmischancebutcameAsnighttohimthatsittingonahillSeesthemidsummer，midnight，NorwaysunSetintosunrise；thenwemovedaway。
　　Thyvoiceisheardthroughrollingdrums，Thatbeattobattlewherehestands；
　　Thyfaceacrosshisfancycomes，Andgivesthebattletohishands：
　　Amoment，whilethetrumpetsblow，Heseeshisbroodaboutthyknee；
　　Thenext，likefirehemeetsthefoe，Andstrikeshimdeadforthineandthee。
　　SoLiliasang：wethoughtherhalf—possessed，Shestrucksuchwarblingfurythroughthewords；
　　And，after，feigningpiqueatwhatshecalledTheraillery，orgrotesque，orfalsesublime——
　　LikeonethatwishesatadancetochangeThemusic——claptherhandsandcriedforwar，Orsomegrandfighttokillandmakeanend：
　　AndhethatnextinheritedthetaleHalfturningtothebrokenstatue，said，’SirRalphhasgotyourcolours：ifIproveYourknight，andfightyourbattle，whatforme？’
　　Itchanced，heremptygloveuponthetombLaybyherlikeamodelofherhand。
　　Shetookitandsheflungit。’Fight’shesaid，’Andmakeusallwewouldbe，greatandgood。’
　　Heknightlikeinhiscapinsteadofcasque，AcapofTyrolborrowedfromthehall，Arrangedthefavour，andassumedthePrince。
　　V
　　Now，scarcethreepacesmeasuredfromthemound，Westumbledonastationaryvoice，And’Stand，whogoes？’’Twofromthepalace’I。
　　’Thesecondtwo：theywait，’hesaid，’passon；
　　HisHighnesswakes：’andone，thatclashedinarms，ByglimmeringlanesandwallsofcanvasledThreadingthesoldier—city，tillweheardThedrowsyfoldsofourgreatensignshakeFromblazonedlionso’ertheimperialtentWhispersofwar。
　　Entering，thesuddenlightDazedmehalf—blind：Istoodandseemedtohear，AsinapoplargrovewhenalightwindwakesAlispingoftheinnumerousleafanddies，Eachhissinginhisneighbour’sear；andthenAstrangledtitter，outofwhichtherebrakeOnallsides，clamouringetiquettetodeath，Unmeasuredmirth；whilenowthetwooldkingsBegantowagtheirbaldnessupanddown，Thefreshyoungcaptainsflashedtheirglitteringteeth，Thehugebush—beardedBaronsheavedandblew，AndslainwithlaughterrolledthegildedSquire。
　　AtlengthmySire，hisroughcheekwetwithtears，Pantedfromwearysides’King，youarefree!
　　Wedidbutkeepyousuretyforourson，Ifthisbehe，——oradraggedmawkin，thou，Thattendstoherbristledgruntersinthesludge：’
　　ForIwasdrenchedwithooze，andtornwithbriers，Morecrumpledthanapoppyfromthesheath，Andallonerag，disprincedfromheadtoheel。
　　ThensomeonesentbeneathhisvaultedpalmAwhisperedjesttosomeonenearhim，’Look，Hehasbeenamonghisshadows。’’SatantakeTheoldwomenandtheirshadows!（thustheKingRoared）makeyourselfamantofightwithmen。
　　Go：Cyriltoldusall。’
　　AsboysthatslinkFromferuleandthetrespass—chidingeye，Awaywestole，andtransientinatriceFromwhatwasleftoffadedwoman—sloughTosheathingsplendoursandthegoldenscaleOfharness，issuedinthesun，thatnowLeaptfromthedewyshouldersoftheEarth，AndhittheNorthernhills。HereCyrilmetus。
　　Alittleshyatfirst，butbyandbyWetwain，withmutualpardonaskedandgivenForstrokeandsong，resolderedpeace，whereonFollowedhistale。AmazedhefledawayThroughthedarkland，andlaterinthenightHadcomeonPsycheweeping：’thenwefellIntoyourfather’shand，andthereshelies，Butwillnotspeak，orstir。’
　　HeshowedatentAstone—shotoff：weenteredin，andthereAmongpiledarmsandroughaccoutrements，Pitifulsight，wrappedinasoldier’scloak，Likesomesweetsculpturedrapedfromheadtofoot，Andpushedbyrudehandsfromitspedestal，Allherfairlengthuponthegroundshelay：
　　Andatherheadafollowerofthecamp，Acharredandwrinkledpieceofwomanhood，Satwatchinglikethewatcherbythedead。
　　ThenFlorianknelt，and’Come’hewhisperedtoher，’Liftupyourhead，sweetsister：lienotthus。
　　Whathaveyoudonebutright？youcouldnotslayMe，noryourprince：lookup：becomforted：
　　Sweetisittohavedonethethingoneought，Whenfallenindarkerways。’AndlikewiseI：
　　’Becomforted：haveInotlosthertoo，InwhoseleastactabidesthenamelesscharmThatnonehaselseforme？’Sheheard，shemoved，Shemoaned，afoldedvoice；andupshesat，AndraisedthecloakfrombrowsaspaleandsmoothAsthosethatmournhalf—shroudedoverdeathIndeathlessmarble。’Her，’shesaid，’myfriend——
　　Partedfromher——betrayedhercauseandmine——
　　WhereshallIbreathe？whykeptyenotyourfaith？
　　Obaseandbad!whatcomfort？noneforme!’
　　TowhomremorsefulCyril，’YetIprayTakecomfort：live，dearlady，foryourchild!’
　　Atwhichshelifteduphervoiceandcried。
　　’Ahme，mybabe，myblossom，ah，mychild，Myonesweetchild，whomIshallseenomore!
　　FornowwillcruelIdakeepherback；
　　Andeithershewilldiefromwantofcare，Orsickenwithill—usage，whentheysayThechildishers——foreverylittlefault，Thechildishers；andtheywillbeatmygirlRememberinghermother：Omyflower!
　　Ortheywilltakeher，theywillmakeherhard，Andshewillpassmebyinafter—lifeWithsomecoldreverenceworsethanwereshedead。
　　IllmotherthatIwastoleaveherthere，Tolagbehind，scaredbythecrytheymade，Thehorroroftheshameamongthemall：
　　ButIwillgoandsitbesidethedoors，Andmakeawildpetitionnightandday，UntiltheyhatetohearmelikeawindWailingforever，tilltheyopentome，Andlaymylittleblossomatmyfeet，Mybabe，mysweetAgla颽，myonechild：
　　AndIwilltakeherupandgomyway，Andsatisfymysoulwithkissingher：
　　Ah!whatmightthatmannotdeserveofmeWhogavemebackmychild？’’Becomforted，’
　　SaidCyril，’youshallhaveit：’butagainSheveiledherbrows，andproneshesank，andsoLiketenderthingsthatbeingcaughtfeigndeath，Spokenot，norstirred。
　　BythisamurmurranThroughallthecampandinwardracedthescoutsWithrumourofPrinceArabhardathand。
　　Weleftherbythewoman，andwithoutFoundthegraykingsatparle：and’Lookyou’criedMyfather’thatourcompactbefulfilled：
　　Youhavespoiltthischild；shelaughsatyouandman：
　　Shewrongsherself，hersex，andme，andhim：
　　Butred—facedwarhasrodsofsteelandfire；
　　Sheyields，orwar。’
　　ThenGamaturnedtome：
　　’Wefear，indeed，youspentastormytimeWithourstrangegirl：andyettheysaythatstillYouloveher。Giveus，then，yourmindatlarge：
　　Howsayyou，warornot？’
　　’Notwar，ifpossible，Oking，’Isaid，’lestfromtheabuseofwar，Thedesecratedshrine，thetrampledyear，Thesmoulderinghomestead，andthehouseholdflowerTornfromthelintel——allthecommonwrong——
　　AsmokegoupthroughwhichIloomtoherThreetimesamonster：nowshelightensscornAthimthatmarsherplan，butthenwouldhate（Andeveryvoiceshetalkedwithratifyit，Andeveryfaceshelookedonjustifyit）
　　Thegeneralfoe。Moresolubleisthisknot，Bygentlenessthanwar。Iwantherlove。
　　WhatwereInigherthisalthoughwedashedYourcitiesintoshardswithcatapults，Shewouldnotlove；——orbroughtherchained，aslave，Theliftingofwhoseeyelashismylord，Noteverwouldshelove；butbroodingturnThebookofscorn，tillallmyflittingchanceWerecaughtwithintherecordofherwrongs，Andcrushedtodeath：andrather，Sire，thanthisIwouldtheoldGodofwarhimselfweredead，Forgotten，rustingonhisironhills，Rottingonsomewildshorewithribsofwreck，Orlikeanold—worldmammothbulkedinice，Nottobemoltenout。’
　　AndroughlyspakeMyfather，’Tut，youknowthemnot，thegirls。
　　Boy，whenIhearyouprateIalmostthinkThatidiotlegendcredible。Lookyou，Sir!
　　Manisthehunter；womanishisgame：
　　Thesleekandshiningcreaturesofthechase，Wehuntthemforthebeautyoftheirskins；
　　Theyloveusforit，andweridethemdown。
　　Wheedlingandsidingwiththem!Out!forshame!
　　Boy，there’snorosethat’shalfsodeartothemAshethatdoesthethingtheydarenotdo，Breathingandsoundingbeauteousbattle，comesWiththeairofthetrumpetroundhim，andleapsinAmongthewomen，snaresthembythescoreFlatteredandflustered，wins，thoughdashedwithdeathHereddenswhathekisses：thusIwonYoumother，agoodmother，agoodwife，Worthwinning；butthisfirebrand——gentlenessTosuchasher!ifCyrilspakehertrue，Tocatchadragoninacherrynet，TotripatigresswithagossamerWerewisdomtoit。’
　　’YeabutSire，’Icried，’Wildnaturesneedwisecurbs。Thesoldier？No：
　　WhatdaresnotIdadothatsheshouldprizeThesoldier？Ibeheldher，whensheroseTheyesternight，andstorminginextremes，Stoodforhercause，andflungdefiancedownGageliketoman，andhadnotshunnedthedeath，No，notthesoldier’s：yetIholdher，king，Truewoman：youclashthemallinone，Thathaveasmanydifferencesaswe。
　　ThevioletvariesfromthelilyasfarAsoakfromelm：onelovesthesoldier，oneThesilkenpriestofpeace，onethis，onethat，Andsomeunworthily；theirsinlessfaith，Amaidenmoonthatsparklesonasty，Glorifyingclownandsatyr；whencetheyneedMorebreadthofculture：isnotIdaright？
　　Theyworthit？truertothelawwithin？
　　Severerinthelogicofalife？
　　TwiceasmagnetictosweetinfluencesOfearthandheaven？andsheofwhomyouspeak，Mymother，looksaswholeassomesereneCreationmintedinthegoldenmoodsOfsovereignartists；notathought，atouch，ButpureaslinesofgreenthatstreakthewhiteOfthefirstsnowdrop’sinnerleaves；Isay，Notlikethepiebaldmiscellany，man，Burstsofgreatheartandslipsinsensualmire，Butwholeandone：andtakethemall—in—all，Wereweourselvesbuthalfasgood，askind，Astruthful，muchthatIdaclaimsasrightHadne’erbeenmooted，butasfranklytheirsAsduesofNature。Toourpoint：notwar：
　　LestIloseall。’
　　’Nay，nay，youspakebutsense’
　　SaidGama。’WerememberloveourselfInoursweetyouth；wedidnotratehimthenThisred—hotirontobeshapedwithblows。
　　YoutalkalmostlikeIda：~she~cantalk；
　　Andthereissomethinginitasyousay：
　　Butyoutalkkindlier：weesteemyouforit。——
　　HeseemsagraciousandagallantPrince，Iwouldhehadourdaughter：fortherest，Ourowndetention，why，thecausesweighed，Fatherlyfears——youuseduscourteously——
　　WewoulddomuchtogratifyyourPrince——
　　Wepardonit；andforyouringresshereUpontheskirtandfringeofourfairland，youdidbutcomeasgoblinsinthenight，Norinthefurrowbroketheploughman’shead，Norburntthegrange，norbussedthemilking—maid，Norrobbedthefarmerofhisbowlofcream：
　　ButletyourPrince（ourroyalworduponit，Hecomesbacksafe）ridewithustoourlines，AndspeakwithArac：Arac’swordisthriceAsourswithIda：somethingmaybedone——
　　Iknownotwhat——andoursshallseeusfriends。
　　You，likewise，ourlateguests，ifsoyouwill，Followus：whoknows？wefourmaybuildsomeplanFoursquaretoopposition。’
　　HerehereachedWhitehandsoffarewelltomysire，whogrowledAnanswerwhich，half—muffledinhisbeard，Letsomuchoutasgaveusleavetogo。
　　ThenrodewewiththeoldkingacrossthelawnsBeneathhugetrees，athousandringsofSpringIneverybole，asongoneverysprayOfbirdsthatpipedtheirValentines，andwokeDesireinmetoinfusemytaleofloveIntheoldking’sears，whopromisedhelp，andoozedAllo’erwithhoneyedansweraswerodeAndblossom—fragrantslipttheheavydewsGatheredbynightandpeace，witheachlightairOnourmailedheads：butotherthoughtsthanPeaceBurntinus，whenwesawtheembattledsquares，AndsquadronsofthePrince，tramplingtheflowersWithclamour：foramongthemroseacryAsiftogreettheking；theymadeahalt；
　　Thehorsesyelled；theyclashedtheirarms；thedrumBeat；merrily—blowingshrilledthemartialfife；
　　AndintheblastandbrayofthelonghornAndserpent—throatedbugle，undulatedThebanner：anontomeetuslightlyprancedThreecaptainsout；noreverhadIseenSuchthewsofmen：themidmostandthehighestWasArac：allabouthismotionclungTheshadowofhissister，asthebeamOftheEast，thatplayeduponthem，madethemglanceLikethosethreestarsoftheairyGiant’szone，Thatglitterburnishedbythefrostydark；
　　AndasthefierySiriusaltershue，Andbickersintoredandemerald，shoneTheirmorions，washedwithmorning，astheycame。
　　AndIthatpratedpeace，whenfirstIheardWar—music，felttheblindwildbeastofforce，Whosehomeisinthesinewsofaman，Stirinmeastostrike：thentookthekingHisthreebroadsons；withnowawanderinghandAndnowapointedfinger，toldthemall：
　　AcommonlightofsmilesatourdisguiseBrokefromtheirlips，and，erethewindyjestHadlaboureddownwithinhisamplelungs，Thegenialgiant，Arac，rolledhimselfThriceinthesaddle，thenburstoutinwords。
　　’Ourlandinvaded，’sdeath!andhehimselfYourcaptive，yetmyfatherwillsnotwar：
　　And，’sdeath!myself，whatcareI，warorno？
　　butthenthisquestionofyourtrothremains：
　　Andthere’sadownrighthonestmeaninginher；
　　Shefliestoohigh，shefliestoohigh!andyetSheaskedbutspaceandfairplayforherscheme；
　　Sheprestandprestitonme——Imyself，WhatknowIofthesethings？but，lifeandsoul!
　　Ithoughtherhalf—righttalkingofherwrongs；
　　Isayshefliestoohigh，’sdeath!whatofthat？
　　Itakeherfortheflowerofwomankind，AndsoIoftentoldher，rightorwrong，And，Prince，shecanbesweettothosesheloves，And，rightorwrong，Icarenot：thisisall，Istanduponherside：shemademeswearit——
　　’Sdeath——andwithsolemnritesbycandle—light——
　　SwearbyStsomething——Iforgethername——
　　Herthattalkeddownthefiftywisestmen；
　　~She~wasaprincesstoo；andsoIswore。
　　Come，thisisall；shewillnot：waiveyourclaim：
　　Ifnot，thefoughtenfield，whatelse，atonceDecidesit，’sdeath!againstmyfather’swill。’
　　IlaggedinanswerlothtorenderupMyprecontract，andlothbybrainlesswarTocleavetheriftofdifferencedeeperyet；
　　Tilloneofthosetwobrothers，halfasideAndfingeringatthehairabouthislip，Toprickusontocombat’Liketolike!
　　Thewoman’sgarmenthidthewoman’sheart。’
　　Atauntthatclenchedhispurposelikeablow!
　　Forfiery—shortwasCyril’scounter—scoff，AndsharpIanswered，toucheduponthepointWhereidleboysarecowardstotheirshame，’Decideithere：whynot？wearethreetothree。’
　　Thenspakethethird’Butthreetothree？nomore？
　　Nomore，andinournoblesister’scause？
　　More，more，forhonour：everycaptainwaitsHungryforhonour，angryforhisking。
　　More，moresomefiftyonaside，thateachMaybreathehimself，andquick!byoverthrowOftheseorthose，thequestionsettleddie。’
　　’Yea，’answeredI，’forthiswreathofair，ThisflakeofrainbowflyingonthehighestFoamofmen’sdeeds——thishonour，ifyewill。
　　Itneedsmustbeforhonourifatall：
　　Since，whatdecision？ifwefail，wefail，Andifwewin，wefail：shewouldnotkeepHercompact。’’’Sdeath!butwewillsendtoher，’
　　SaidArac，’worthyreasonswhysheshouldBidebythisissue：letourmissivethrough，Andyoushallhaveheranswerbytheword。’
　　’Boys!’shriekedtheoldking，butvainlierthanahenToherfalsedaughtersinthepool；fornoneRegarded；neitherseemedtheremoretosay：
　　Backrodewetomyfather’scamp，andfoundHethricehadsentaheraldtothegates，TolearnifIdayetwouldcedeourclaim，OrbydenialflushherbabblingwellsWithherownpeople’slife：threetimeshewent：
　　Thefirst，heblewandblew，butnoneappeared：
　　Hebatteredatthedoors；nonecame：thenext，Anawfulvoicewithinhadwarnedhimthence：
　　Thethird，andthoseeightdaughtersoftheploughCamesallyingthroughthegates，andcaughthishair，AndsobelabouredhimonribandcheekTheymadehimwild：notlessoneglancehecaughtThroughopendoorsofIdastationedthereUnshaken，clingingtoherpurpose，firmThoughcompassedbytwoarmiesandthenoiseOfarms；andstandinglikeastatelyPineSetinacataractonanisland—crag，Whenstormisontheheights，andrightandleftSuckedfromthedarkheartofthelonghillsrollThetorrents，dashedtothevale：andyetherwillBredwillinmetoovercomeitorfall。
　　ButwhenItoldthekingthatIwaspledgedTofightintourneyformybride，heclashedHisironpalmstogetherwithacry；
　　Himselfwouldtiltitoutamongthelads：
　　ButoverbornebyallhisbeardedlordsWithreasonsdrawnfromageandstate，perforceHeyielded，wrothandred，withfiercedemur：
　　Andmanyaboldknightstartedupinheat，Andswaretocombatformyclaimtilldeath。
　　AllonthissidethepalaceranthefieldFlattothegarden—wall：andlikewisehere，Abovethegarden’sglowingblossom—belts，Acolumnedentryshoneandmarblestairs，Andgreatbronzevalves，embossedwithTomyrisAndwhatshedidtoCyrusafterfight，Butnowfastbarred：sohereupontheflatAllthatlongmornthelistswerehammeredup，Andallthatmorntheheraldstoandfro，Withmessageanddefiance，wentandcame；
　　Last，Ida’sanswer，inaroyalhand，Butshakenhereandthere，androllingwordsOration—like。IkisseditandIread。
　　’Obrother，youhaveknownthepangswefelt，WhatheatsofindignationwhenweheardOfthosethatiron—crampedtheirwomen’sfeet；
　　OflandsinwhichatthealtarthepoorbrideGivesherharshgroomforbridal—giftascourge；
　　OflivingheartsthatcrackwithinthefireWheresmouldertheirdeaddespots；andofthose，——
　　Mothers，——that，withallpropheticpity，flingTheirprettymaidsintherunningflood，andswoopsThevulture，beakandtalon，attheheartMadeforallnoblemotion：andIsawThatequalbasenesslivedinsleekertimesWithsmoothermen：theoldleavenleavenedall：
　　Millionsofthroatswouldbawlforcivilrights，Nowomannamed：thereforeIsetmyfaceAgainstallmen，andlivedbutformineown。
　　FarofffrommenIbuiltafoldforthem：
　　Istoreditfullofrichmemorial：
　　Ifenceditroundwithgallantinstitutes，AndbitinglawstoscarethebeastsofpreyAndprospered；tillaroutofsaucyboysBrakeonusatourbooks，andmarredourpeace，Maskedlikeourmaids，blusteringIknownotwhatOfinsolenceandlove，somepretextheldOfbabytroth，invalid，sincemywillSealednotthebond——thestriplings!fortheirsport!——
　　Itamedmyleopards：shallInottamethese？
　　Oryou？orI？forsinceyouthinkmetouchedInhonour——what，Iwouldnotaughtoffalse——
　　Isnotourcasepure？andwhereasIknowYourprowess，Arac，andwhatmother’sbloodYoudrawfrom，fight；youfailing，IabideWhatendsoever：failyouwillnot。StillTakenothislife：heriskeditformyown；
　　Hismotherlives：yetwhatsoe’eryoudo，Fightandfightwell；strikeandstrikehim。OdearBrothers，thewoman’sAngelguardsyou，youThesolementobemingledwithourcause，Thesolemenweshallprizeintheafter—time，Yourveryarmourhallowed，andyourstatuesReared，sungto，when，thisgad—flybrushedaside，WeplantasolidfootintotheTime，AndmouldagenerationstrongtomoveWithclaimonclaimfromrighttoright，tillsheWhosenameisyokedwithchildren’s，knowherself；
　　AndKnowledgeinourownlandmakeherfree，And，everfollowingthosetwocrown鑔twins，Commerceandconquest，showerthefierygrainOffreedombroadcastoveralltheorbsBetweentheNorthernandtheSouthernmorn。’
　　Thencameapostscriptdashedacrosstherest。
　　Seethattherebenotraitorsinyourcamp：
　　Weseemanestoftraitors——nonetotrustSinceourarmsfailed——thisEgypt—plagueofmen!
　　Almostourmaidswerebetterattheirhomes，Thanthusman—girdledhere：indeedIthinkOurchiefestcomfortisthelittlechildOfoneunworthymother；whichsheleft：
　　Sheshallnothaveitback：thechildshallgrowToprizetheauthenticmotherofhermind。
　　ItookitforanhourinmineownbedThismorning：therethetenderorphanhandsFeltatmyheart，andseemedtocharmfromthenceThewrathInursedagainsttheworld：farewell。’
　　Iceased；hesaid，’Stubborn，butshemaysitUponaking’srighthandinthunder—storms，Andbreedupwarriors!Seenow，thoughyourselfBedazzledbythewildfireLovetosloughsThatswallowcommonsense，thespindlingking，ThisGamaswampedinlazytolerance。