A RIPPLE SONG
Reading edition
Once a ripple came to land In the golden sunset burning— Lapped against a maiden’s hand, By the ford returning. Dainty foot and gentle breast— Here, across, be glad and rest. “Maiden, wait,” the ripple saith. “Wait awhile, for I am Death!” “Where my lover calls I go— Shame it were to treat him coldly— ‘Twas a fish that circled so, Turning over boldly.” Dainty foot and tender heart, Wait the loaded ferry-cart. “Wait, ah, wait!” the ripple saith; “Maiden, wait, for I am Death!” “When my lover calls I haste— Dame Disdain was never wedded!” Ripple-ripple round her waist, Clear the current eddied. Foolish heart and faithful hand, Little feet that touched no land. Far away the ripple sped, Ripple—ripple—running red!