Prelude.

While the blue is richest In the starry sky, While the softest shadows On the greensward lie, While the moonlight slumbers In the lily’s urn, Bright elves of the wild-wood! Oh! return, return! Round the forest fountain, On the river shore, Let your silvery laughter Echo yet once more; While the joyous bounding Of your dewy feet Rings to that old chorus: “The daisy is so sweet!” Oberon, Titania, Did your starlight mirth With the song of Avon Quit this work-day earth? Yet while green leaves glisten, And while bright stars burn, By that magic memory, Oh, return, return!