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。