After my Taka, you have won my heart."

In his strong hand he laid a bowl; for this

The ages had paid toll, soft lightnings shone

From its brown glory, carved most royally.

21

He raised the kava bowl aloft, the sun

Struck on its shining rim, and straight as a spear

Shivered the dusk where Taka stood. The light

Lay on her swelling throat, and showed her eyes

Starred like a tropic night. The stranger's hand

Trembled a little, and his quick-drawn breath

Carried a message from his breast to hers.

They left the hut together. From the clear

Bright heat of noon they turned, and took their way

Into the greenly silent forest. Leaves

Flickered above wet blossoms, simple sounds

Of homely labor borne upon the breeze

Made them the more alone. They spoke of Love,

A mighty word to ease the strange new pain

Born in their hearts.

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