HOLLY AND MISTLETOE
Reading edition
Said the Holly to the Mistletoe: “Of this holy-tide what canst know,— Thou a pagan—thou Of the leafless bough? My leaves are green, my scarlet berries shine At thought of things divine!” To the Holly spake the Mistletoe: “Matters not, my leafless boughs but show Berries pale as pearl— Ask yon boy and girl! If human mirth and love be not some sign Of share in things divine!”