The loves reknit, the crown, the palm.

For me, the death of all desires

In deep, eternal calm.

[37]

[37]

 EVENSONG

In the heart of a German forest I followed the winding ways

Deep-cushioned with moss, and barr’d with the sunset’s slanting rays,

When out of the distance dim, where no end to the path was seen,

But the breath of the Springtime clung like a motionless mist of green,

I heard a sound of singing, unearthly-sad and clear,

Rise from the forest deeps and float on the evening air.

And I thought of the spirits told of in dark old forest lore

Who roam the greenwood singing for ever and evermore;

And I stopped and wondered and waited, as nearer the music grew,

Louder and still more loud—till at last came into view

A troop of Saxon maidens, tanned with the rain and sun,

A burden of billeted wood on the shoulders of every one!

[38]

The strong steps never falter’d, the chanting passed away

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