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The Children's Garland from the Best Poets

Part 2 — C

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THE BEGGAR MAID

Her arms across her breast she laid; She was more fair than words can say; Barefooted came the beggar maid Before the King Cophetua. In robe and crown the king stept down, To meet and greet her on her way; 'It is no wonder,' said the lords, 'She is more beautiful than day.' As shines the moon in clouded skies, She in her poor attire was seen: One praised her ankles, one her eyes, One her dark hair and lovesome mien. So sweet a face, such angel grace, In all that land had never been: Cophetua swore a royal oath: 'This beggar maid shall be my queen.'

A. Tennyson

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