peacock pie, a book of rhymes by de la mare, walter, 1873-1956

8/14/2019 Peacock Pie, a Book of Rhymes by De la Mare, Walter, 1873-1956

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PEACOCKPIEABookofRhymes

byWalterdelaMare

'Hetoldmehisdreams...'IsaacWatts

TableofContents

UPANDDOWN

TheHorsemanUpandDownMrs.EarthAlas,AlackTiredTimMimaTheHuntsmenTheBandogICan'tAbearTheDunceChickenSomeOneBreadandCherries

OldShelloverHaplessTheLittleBirdCakeandSackTheShipofRioTillieJimJayMissT.TheCupboardTheBarber'sHideandSeek

BOYSANDGIRLS

ThenTheWindowPoorHenryFullMoonTheBookwormTheQuartetteMistletoeTheLostShoeTheTruants


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THREEQUEERTALESBerriesOfftheGroundTheThiefatRobin'sCastle

PLACESANDPEOPLEAWidow'sWeeds'Sooeep!'Mrs.MacQueenTheLittleGreenOrchardPoorMiss7SamAndyBattleTheOldSoldierThePictureTheLittleOldCupidKingDavidTheOldHouse

BEASTSUnstoopingAllButBlindNicholasNyeThePigsandTheCharcoalBurner

FiveEyesGrimTitforTatSummerEveningEarthFolk

WITCHESANDFAIRIESAttheKeyholeTheOldStoneHouseTheRuinTheRide-by-NightsPeakandPukeTheChangeling

TheMockingFairyBewitchedTheHoneyRobbersLonglegsMelmillo

EARTHANDAIRTreesSilverNobodyKnowsWanderersManyaMickleWillEver?

SONGSTheSongoftheSecretTheSongofSoldiersTheBees'SongASongofEnchantmentDream-SongTheSongofShadowsTheSongoftheMadprinceTheSongofFinis


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THEHORSEMAN

IheardahorsemanRideoverthehill;Themoonshoneclear,Thenightwasstill;Hishelmwassilver,Andpalewashe;AndthehorseherodeWasofivory.

UPANDDOWN

DowntheHillofLudgate,UptheHillofFleet,ToandfroandEastandWestWithpeopleflowsthestreet;EventheKingofEnglandOnTempleBarmustbeatForleavetoridetoLudgateDowntheHillofFleet.

MRS.EARTH

Mrs.Earthmakessilverblack,Mrs.EarthmakesironredButMrs.Earthcannotstaingold,Norrubyred.Mrs.earththeslenderestboneWhitensinherbosomcold,ButMrs.EarthcanchangemydreamsNomorethanrubyorgold.Mrs.EarthandMr.Sun

Cantanmyskin,andtiremytoes,ButallthatI'mthinkingof,evershallthink,Why,eitherknows.

ALAS,ALACK!

Ann,Ann!Come!Quickasyoucan!There'safishthattalksInthefrying-pan.Outofthefat,Asclearasglass,

HeputuphismouthAndmoaned'Alas!'Oh,mostmournful,'Alas,alack!'Thenturnedtohissizzling,Andsankhimback.

TIREDTIM


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PoorTiredTim!It'ssadforhim.Helagsthelongbrightmorningthrough,Eversotiredofnothingtodo;Hemoonsandmopesthelivelongday,Nothingtothinkabout,nothingtosay;Uptobedwithhiscandletocreep,Tootiredtoyawn,tootiredtosleep:PoorTiredTim!It'ssadforhim.

MIMA

Jemimaismyname,Butoh,Ihaveanother;MyfatheralwayscallsmeMeg,AndsodoBobandmother;Onlymysister,jealousofThestrandsofmybrighthair,'Jemima-Mima-Mima!'Calls,mocking,upthestair.

THEHUNTSMEN

Threejollygentlemen,Incoatsofred,RodetheirhorsesUptobed.

ThreejollygentlemenSnoredtillmorn,TheirhorseschampingThegoldencorn.

Threejollygentlemen,Atbreakofday,Cameclitter-clatterdownthestairs

Andgallopedaway.

THEBANDOG

HasanybodyseenmyMopser?--Acomelydogishe,WithhairofthecolourofaCharlestheFifth,Andteethlikeshipsatsea,Histailitcurlsstraightupwards,Hisearsstandtwoabreast,AndheanswerstothesimplenameofMopserWhencivillyaddressed.

ICAN'TABEAR

Ican'tabearaButcher,Ican'tabidehismeat,Theugliestshopofallishis,Theugliestinthestreet;Bakers'arewarm,cobblers'dark,Chemists'burnwaterylights;


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Butoh,thesawdustbutcher'sshop,Thatugliestofsights!

THEDUNCE

Whydoeshestillkeepticking?WhydoeshisroundwhitefaceStareatmeoverthebooksandink,Andmockatmydisgrace?Whydoesthatthrushcall,'Dunce,dunce,dunce!'?Whydoesthatbluebottlebuzz?Whydoesthesunsosilentshine?--AndwhatdoIcareifitdoes?

CHICKEN

ClappingherplatterstoodplumpBess,AndallacrossthegreenCamescamperingin,onwingandclaw,Chickenfatandlean:Dorking,Spaniard,CochinChina,Bantamssleekandsmall,

Likefeathersblowninagreatwind,TheycameatBessie'scall.

SOMEONE

SomeonecameknockingAtmywee,smalldoor;Someonecameknocking,I'msure-sure-sure;Ilistened,Iopened,Ilookedtoleftandright,Butnaughttherewasa-stirring

Inthestilldarknight;OnlythebusybeetleTap-tappinginthewall,OnlyfromtheforestThescreech-owl'scall,OnlythecricketwhistlingWhilethedewdropsfall,SoIknownotwhocameknocking,Atall,atall,atall.

BREADANDCHERRIES

'Cherries,ripecherries!'Theoldwomancried,Inhersnowywhiteapron,Andbasketbeside;Andthelittleboyscame,Eyesshining,cheeksred,Tobuyabagofcherries,Toeatwiththeirbread.


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OLDSHELLOVER

'Come!'saidOldShellover.'What?'saysCreep.'ThehornyoldGardener'sfastasleep;ThefatcockThrushTohisnesthasgone;AndthedewshinesbrightIntherisingMoon;OldSallieWormfromherholedothpeep:Come!'saidOldShellover.'Aye!'saidCreep.

HAPLESS

Hapless,hapless,ImustbeAllthehoursoflifeIsee,SincemyfoolishnursedidonceBedmeonherleggenbones;SincemymotherdidnotweelTosnipmynailswithbladesofsteel.HadtheylaidmeonapillowInacotofwaterwillow,

Hadtheybittenfingerandthumb,NottosuchillhapIhadcome.

THELITTLEBIRD

MydearDaddieboughtamansionFortobringmyMammieto,Inahatwithalongfeather,Andatrailinggownofblue;AndacompanyoffiddlersAndaroutofmaidsandmenDancedtheclockroundtothemorning,

Inagayhouse-warmingthen.Andwhenalltheguestsweregone,andAllwasstillasstillcanbe,InfromthedarkivyhoppedaWeesmallbird:andthatwasMe.

CAKEANDSACK

OldKingCarawaySuppedoncake,AndacupofsackHisthirsttoslake;

BirdinarrasAndhoundinhallWatchedverysoftlyOrnotatall;Fireinthemiddle,StoneallroundChangednot,heedednot,Madenosound;AllbyhimselfAttheTableHigh


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He'dnibbleandsipWhilehisdreamsslippedby;Andwhenhehadfinished,He'dnodandsay,'CakeandsackForKingCaraway!'

THESHIPOFRIO

TherewasashipofRioSailedoutintotheblue,AndnineandninetymonkeysWereallherjovialcrew.Frombo'suntothecabinboy,Fromquartertocaboose,Thereweren'tastitchofcalicoTobreech'em-tightorloose;Fromspartodeck,fromdecktokeel,Frombarnacletoshroud,Thereweren'tonepairofreach-me-downsToallthatjabberingcrowd.Butwasn'titagladsomesight,Whenroaredthedeepseagales,

ToseethemreefherforeandaftA-swingingbytheirtails!Oh,wasn'titagladsomesight,Whenglassycalmdidcome,Toseethemsquattingtailor-wiseAroundakegofrum!Oh,wasn'titagladsomesight,Wheninshesailedtoland,Toseethemalla-scamperingskipFornutsacrossthesand!

TILLIE

OldTillieTurveycombeSattosew,Justwhereapatchofferndidgrow;There,assheyawned,Andyawnwidedidshe,FloatedsomeseedDownhergull-e-t;Andlookyouonce,Andlookyoutwice,PooroldTillieWasgoneinatrice.Butoh,whenthewind

Doa-moaningcome,'TispooroldTillieSickforhome;Andoh,whenavoiceInthemistdosigh,OldTillieTurveycombe'sFloatingby.

JIMJAY


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Dodiddledido,PoorJimJayGotstuckfastInYesterday.Squintinghewas,OnCross-legsbent,NeverheedingThewindwasspent.Roundveeredtheweathercock,Thesundrewin-AndstuckwasJimLikearustypin...WepulledandwepulledFromseventilltwelve,Jim,toofrightenedTohelphimself.Butallinvain.Theclockstruckone,AndtherewasJimAlittlebitgone.Athalf-pastfiveYouscarcecouldseeAglimpseofhisflapping

Handkerchee.Andwhencamenoon,Andweclimbedsky-high,JimwasaspeckSlip-slippingby.Cometo-morrow,Theneighbourssay,He'llbepastcryingfor;PoorJimJay.

MISST.

It'saveryoddthing-----Asoddascanbe---ThatwhateverMissT.eatsTurnsintoMissT.;Porridgeandapples,Mince,muffinsandmutton,Jam,junket,jumbles----Notarap,notabuttonItmatters;themomentThey'reoutofherplate,ThoughsharedbyMissButcherAndsourMr.Bate;Tinyandcheerful,

Andneatascanbe,WhateverMissT.eatsTurnsintoMissT.

THECUPBOARD

Iknowalittlecupboard,Withateenytinykey,Andthere'sajarofLollypops


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Forme,me,me.

Ithasalittleshelf,mydear,Asdarkasdarkcanbe,Andthere'sadishofBanburyCakesForme,me,me.

Ihaveasmallfatgrandmamma,Withaveryslipperyknee,Andshe'stheKeeperoftheCupboardWiththekey,key,key.

AndI'mverygood,mydear,Asgoodasgoodcanbe,There'sBranburyCakes,andLollypopsForme,me,me.

THEBARBER'S

Goldlocks,andblacklocks,Redlocksandbrown,Topknottolove-curlThehairwispsdown;

Straightabovethecleareyes,Roundedroundtheears,Snip-snapandsnick-a-snick,ClashtheBarber'sshears;Us,inthelooking-glass,Footstepsinthestreet,Over,under,toandfro,Theleanbladesmeet;BayRumorBear'sGrease,Asilvergroattopay-Thenouta-shin-shan-shiningInthebright,blueday.

HIDEANDSEEK

Hideandseek,saystheWind,Intheshadeofthewoods;Hideandseek,saystheMoon,Tothehazelbuds;Hideandseek,saystheCloud,Starontostar;Hideandseek,saystheWave,Attheharbourbar;Hideandseek,sayI,Tomyself,andstep

OutofthedreamofWakeIntothedreamofSleep.

BOYSANDGIRLS

THEN

Twenty,forty,sixty,eightyAhundredyearsago,


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AllthroughthenightwithlanternbrightTheWatchtrudgedtoandfro,AndlittleboystuckedsnugabedWouldwakefromdreamstohear-'Twoo'themorningbytheclock,Andthestarsa-shiningclear!'Or,whenacrossthechimney-topsScreamedshrillaNorth-Eastgale,Afaintandshakenvoicewouldshout,'Three!Andastormofhail!'

THEWINDOW

BehindtheblindsIsitandwatchThepeoplepassing-passingby;AndnotasingleonecanseeMytinywatchingeye.

Theycannotseemylittleroom,Allyellowedwiththeshadedsun;TheydonotevenknowI'mhere;Nor'llguesswhenIamgone.

POORHENRY

ThickinitsglassThephysicstands,PoorHenryliftsDistractedhands;HisroundcheekwansInthecandlelight,Tosmellthatsmell!Toseethatsight!

Fingerandthumb

Clinchhissmallnose,Agurgle,agasp,Anddownitgoes;ScowlsHenrynow;Butmarkthatcheek,SleekwiththebloomOfhealthnextweek!

FULLMOON

OnenightasDicklayhalfasleep,Intohisdrowsyeyes

AgreatstilllightbeginstocreepFromoutthesilentskies.Itwaslovelymoon's,forwhenHeraisedhisdreamyhead,HersurgeofsilverfilledthepaneAndstreamedacrosshisbed.So,forawhile,eachgazedateach-Dickandthesolemnmoon-Till,climbingslowlyonherway,Shevanished,andwasgone.


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THEBOOKWORM

'I'mtired-Oh,tiredofbooks,'saidJack,'Ilongformeadowsgreen,Andwoods,whereshadowyvioletsNodtheircoolleavesbetween;IlongtoseetheploughmanstrideHisdarkeningacreso'er,Tohearthehoarsesea-watersdriveTheirbillows'gainsttheshore;Ilongtowatchthesea-mewwheelBacktoherrock-perchedmate;Or,wherethebreathingcowsarehoused,Leandreamingo'erthegate.Somethinghasgone,andinkandprintWillneverbringitback;Ilongforthegreenfieldsagain,I'mtiredofbooks,'saidJack.

THEQUARTETTE

TomsangforjoyandNedsangforjoyandoldSamsangforjoy;Allwefourboyspipeduploud,justlikeoneboy;AndtheladiesthatsatewiththeSquire-theircheekswereallwet,Forthenoiseofthevoiceofusboys,whenwesangourQuartette.

TomhepipedlowandNedhepipedlowandoldSamhepipedlow;Intoasorrowfulfalldidourmusicflow;AndtheladiesthatsatewiththeSquirevowedthey'dneverforgetHowtheeyesofthemcriedfordelight,whenwesangourQuartette.

MISTLETOE

Sittingunderthemistletoe(Pale-green,fairymistletoe),Onelastcandleburninglow,Allthesleepydancersgone,Justonecandleburningon,Shadowslurkingeverywhere:Someonecame,andkissedmethere.

TiredIwas;myheadwouldgoNoddingunderthemistletoe(Pale-green,fairymistletoe),Nofootstepscame,novoice,butonly,JustasIsatthere,sleepy,lonely,

StoopedinthestillandshadowyairLipsunseen-andkissedmethere.

THELOSTSHOE

PoorlittleLucyBysomemischance,LosthershoeAsshediddance-


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'Twasnotonthestairs,Notinthehall;NotwheretheysatAtsupperatall.Shelookedinthegarden,Butthereitwasnot;Henhouse,orkennel,Orhighdovecote.Dairyandmeadow,AndwildwoodsthroughShowednotatraceOfLucy'sshoe.BirdnorbunnyNorglimmeringmoonBreathedawhisperOfwhere'twasgone.Itwascriedandcried,OyezandOyez!InFrench,Dutch,Latin,AndPortuguese.ShipsthedarkseasWentplungingthrough,ButnonebroughtnewsOfLucy'sshoe;

AndstillshepattersInsilkandleather,O'ersnow,sand,shingle,Ineveryweather;Spain,andAfrica,Hindustan,Java,China,AndlampedJapan;Plainanddesert,Shehops-hopsthrough,PernambucoTogoldPeru;Mountainandforest,

Andrivertoo,AlltheworldoverForherlostshoe.

THETRUANTS

EremyheartbeatstoocoldlyandfaintlyToremembersadthings,yetbegay,Iwouldsingabriefsongoftheworld'slittlechildrenMagichathstolenaway.

TheprimrosesscatteredbyApril,

ThestarsofthewideMilkyWay,CannotoutnumberthehostsofthechildrenMagichathstolenaway.

Thebuttercupgreenofthemeadows,Thesnowoftheblossomingmay,LovelierarenotthanthelegionsofchildrenMagichathstolenaway.

Thewavestossingsurfinthemoonbeam,


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Thealbatrossloneonthespray,AloneknowthetearsweptinvainforthechildrenMagichathstolenaway.

Invain:forathushoftheevening,Whenthestarstwinkleintothegrey,Seemstoechothefar-awaycallingofchildrenMagichathstolenaway.

THREEQUEERTALES

BERRIES

TherewasanoldwomanWentblackberrypickingAlongthehedgesFromWeeptoWicking.-Halfapottle-Nomoreshehadgot,WhenoutstepsaFairyFromhergreengrot;Andsays,'Well,Jill,

Would'eepickeemo?'AndJill,shecurtseys,Andlooksjustso.Beoff,'saystheFairy,'Asquickasyoucan,OverthemeadowsTothelittlegreenlaneThatdipstothehayfieldsOfFarmerGrimes:I'veberriedthosehedgesAscoreoftimes;BushelonbushelI'llpromise'ee,Jill,

ThissideofsupperIf'eepickwithawill.'Sheglintsverybright,Andspeaksherfair;Thenlo,andbehold!Shehadfadedinair.

BesureOldGoodieShetrotsbetimesOverthemeadowsToFarmerGrimes.AndneverwasqueenWithjewelryrich

AsthosesamehedgesFromtwigtoditch;LikeDutchmen'scoffers,Fruit,thorn,andflower-TheyshonelikeWilliamAndMary'sbower.AndbesureOldGoodieWentbacktoWeep,SotiredwithherbasketShescarcecouldcreep.


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WhenshecomesintheduskTohercottagedoor,There'sTowserwaggingAsneverbefore,ToseehisMissusSogladtobeComefromherfruit-pickingBacktohe.AssoonasnextmorningDawnwasgrey,ThepotonthehobWassimmeringaway;AndallinastewAndahugger-muggerTowserandJillA-boilingofsugar,AndthedarkclearfruitThatfromFaeriecame,ForsyrupandjellyAndblackberryjam.

TwelvejollygallipotsJillputby;

Andonelittleteenyone,Oneinchhigh;Andthatshe'shiddenAgoodthumbdeep,HalfwayoverFromWickingtoWeep.

OFFTHEGROUND

ThreejollyFarmersOncebetapoundEachdancetheotherswould

Offtheground.OutoftheircoatsTheyslippedrightsoon,Andneatandnicesome,Puteachhisshoon.One-Two-Three!-Andawaytheygo,Nottoofast,Andnottooslow;Outfromtheelm-tree'sNoondayshadow,IntothesunAndacrossthemeadow.

Pasttheschoolroom,WithkneeswellbentFingersa-flicking,Theydancingwent.Upsidesandover,Androundandround,Theycrossedclick-clacking,TheParishbound,ByTupman'smeadowTheydidtheirmile,


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Tee-t-tumOnathree-barredstile.ThenstraightthroughWhipham,DownhilltoWeek,Footingitlightsome,Butnottooquick,UpfieldstoWatchet,AndonthroughWye,TillsevenfinechurchesThey'dseenskipby-Sevenfinechurches,Andfiveoldmills,Farmsinthevalley,Andsheeponthehills;OldMan'sAcreAndDeadMan'sPoolAllleftbehind,AstheydancedthroughWool.AndWoolgoneby,LiketopsthatseemTospininsleepTheydancedindream;Withy-Wellover-Wassop-Wo-

LikeanoldclockTheirheelsdidgo.AleagueandaleagueAndaleaguetheywent,Andnotoneweary,Andnotonespent.AndIo,andbehold!PastWillow-cum-LeighStretchedwithitswatersThegreatgreensea.SaysFarmerBates,IpuffsandIblows,What'sunderthewater,

Why,nomanknows!'SaysFarmerGiles,'Mywindcomesweak,AndagoodmandrowndedIsfartoseek.'ButFarmerTurvey,OntwirlingtoesUp'swithhisgaiters,Andinhegoes:DownwherethemermaidsPluckandplayOntheirtwanglingharpsInasea-greenday;

Downwherethemermaids,Finnedandfair,SleekwiththeircombsTheiryellowhair....BatesandGiles-Ontheshinglesat,GazingatTurvey'sFloatinghat.ButneverarippleNorbubbletold


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WherehewassuppingOffplatesofgold.NeveranechoRilledthroughtheseaOfthefeastinganddancingAndminstrelsy.Theycalled-called-called:Camenoreply:Noughtbuttheripples'Sandysigh.ThenglumandsilentTheysatinstead,VacantlybroodingOnhomeandbed,TillbothtogetherStoodupandsaid.-'Usknowsnot,dreamsnot,Whereyoube,Turvey,unlessInthedeepbluesea;Butaxcusingsilver-Anditcomesmostwilling-Here'sustwopayingOurfortyshilling;

Forit'ssartinsure,Turvey,Safeandsound,Youdancedussquare,Turvey,Offtheground!'

THETHIEFATROBIN'SCASTLE

TherecameaThiefonenighttoRobin'sCastle,HeclimbedupintoaTree;Andsittingwithhisheadamongthebranches,AwondrousSightdidsee.

FortherewasRobinsuppingathistable,WithCandlesofpureWax,HisDameandhistwobeauteouslittleChildren,WithVelvetontheirbacks.

Plattersforeachtherewereshin-shining,OfSilvermanyapound,AndallofbeatenGold,threebrimmingGoblets,Standingthetableround.

ThesmellthatroseuprichlyfromtheBakedMeatsCamethinningamidtheboughs,AndmuchthatgreedyThiefwhosnuffedthenightair-

HisHungerdidarouse.

Hewatchedthemeating,drinking,laughing,talking,Busywithfingerandspoon,WhilethreemostcunningFiddlers,cladincrimson,Playedthemasupper-tune.

Andhewaitedinthetree-toplikeaStarling,TilltheMoonwasgottenlow;Whenallthewindowsinthewallsweredarkened,


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Hesoftlyindidgo.

ThereRobinandhisDameinbedweresleeping,AndhisChildrenyoungandfair;OnlyRobin'sHoundsfromtheirwarmkennelsYelpedasheclimbedthestair.

All,allweresleeping,pageandfiddler,Cook,scullion,freefromcare;OnlyRobin'sStallionsfromtheirstablesNeighedasheclimbedthestair.

AweewanlighttheMoondidshedhim,Hangingabovethesea,Andhecountedintohisbag(ofbeatenSilver)Plattersthirty-three.

OfSpoonsthreescore;ofjollygoldenGobletsHestowedinfoursaveone,Andsixfinethree-branchedCupidCandlesticks,Beforehisworkwasdone.

NinebulgingbagsofMoneyinacupboard,TwoSnuffers,andaDish

Hefound,thelastallstuddedwithgreatGarnetsAndshapenlikeaFish.

ThentiptoeuphestoleintoaChamber,WhereonTasselledPillowslayRobinandhisDauleindreamingslumbersTiredwiththesummer'sday.

ThatThiefhemimbledroundhiminthegloaming,Theirtreasurefortospy,Combs,Brooches,Chains,and,Rings,andPinsandBucklesAllhiggledy,Piggle-dy.

AWatchshapedintheshapeofaflatAppleInpurestcrystalsetHeliftedfromthehookwhereitwastickingAndcrammedinhisPochette.

HeheapedtheprettyBaublesonthetable,TrinketsiKnick-knackerie,Pearls,Diamonds,Sapphires,Topazes,andOpals-Allinhisbagputhe.

Andthereinnight'spaleGloomwasRobindreamingHewashuntingthemountainBear,WhilehisDameinpeacefulslumberinnowiseheeded

AgreedyThiefwasthere.

AndthatravenousThiefheclimbedupevenhigher,TillintoachambersmallHecreptwherelaypoorRobin'sbeauteousChildren,Lovelierinsleepwithal.

Oh,fairerwastheirHairthanGoldofGoblet,'YondSilvertheirCheeksdidshine,Andtheirlittlehandsthatlayuponthelinen


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MadethatThief'shardhearttopine.

Butthoughamomenttherehishardheartfaltered,Eftsoonesbetookthemtwain,AndslippedthemintohisBagwithallhisPlunder,Andsoftstoledownagain.

Spoon,Platter,Goblet,Ducats,Dishes,Trinkets,AndthosetwoChildrendear,A-quakingintheclinkingandtheclanking,Andhalfbemusedwithfear,

HecarrieddownthestairsintotheCourtyard,Buttherehemadenostay,HejusttieduphisGarters,tookadeepbreath,Andranlikethewindaway.

PastForest,River,Mountain,River,Forest-Hecoursedthewholenightthrough,TillmorningfoundhimcomeintoaCountry,Wherenonehisbadfaceknew.

PastMountain,River,Forest,River,Mountain-ThatThief'sleanshanksspedon,

TillEveningfoundhimknockingataDarkHouse,Hisbreathnowwell-nighgone.

TherecamealittlemaidandaskedhisBusiness;ACobblerdweltwithin;AndthoughshemuchmislikedtheBaghecarried,SheledtheBadManin.

HebargainedwiththeCobblerforalodgingAndsoftlaiddownhisSack-IntheDeadofNight,withnonetospyorlisten-Fromoffhiswearyback.

AndhetaughtthelittleChickstocallhimFather,AndhesoldhisstolenPelf,AndboughtaPalace,Horses,Slaves,andPeacocksToeasehiswickedself.

AndthoughtheChildrenneverreallylovedhim,Hewasrichpastallbelief;WhileRobinandhisDameo'erDelfandPewterSpentalltheirDaysinGrief.

PLACESANDPEOPLE

AWIDOW'SWEEDS

ApooroldWidowinherweedsSowedhergardenwithwild-flowerseeds;Nottooshallow,andnottoodeep,AnddowncameApril--drip--drip--drip.UpshoneMay,likegold,andsoonGreenasanarbourgrewleafyJune.Andnowallsummershesitsandsews


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Wherewillowherb,comfrey,buglossblows,Teasleandpansy,meadowsweet,Campion,toadflax,androughhawksbit;Brownbeeorchis,andPealsofBells;Clover,burnet,andthymeshesmells;LikeOberon'smeadowshergardenisDrowsyfromdawntoduskwithbees.Weepsshenever,butsometimessighs,Andpeepsathergardenwithbrightbrowneyes;Andallshehasisallsheneeds--ApoorOldWidowinherweeds.

'SOOEEP!'

Blackasachimneyishisface,Andivorywhitehisteeth,Andinhisbrass-boundcartherides,Thechestnutbloomsbeneath.

'Sooeep,Sooeep!'hecries,andbrightlypeersThiswayandthat,toseeWithhistwolight-blueshiningeyesWhatcustomtheremaybe.

Andonceinsidethehouse,he'llsquat,Anddrivehisrodsonhigh,TilltwirlshissuddensootybrushAgainstthemorningsky.

Then,'midhisbulgingbagsofsoot,Withhalftheworldasleep,Hissmallcartwheelshimoffagain,Stillhoarselybawling,'Sooeep!'

MRS.MACQUEEN(ORTHELOLLIE-SHOP)

Withglasslikeabull's-eye,Andshuttersofgreen,DownonthecobblesLivesMrs.MacQueen,

Atsixsherises;AtnineyouseeHercandleshineoutInthelindentree:

Andathalf-pastnineNotasoundisnigh

Butthebrightmoon'screepingAcrossthesky;

Orafardogbaying;OratwitteringbirdInitsdrowsynest,Inthedarknessstirred;

OrliketheroarOfadistantsea


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Along-drawnS-s-shInthelindentree.

THELITTLEGREENORCHARD

Someoneisalwayssittingthere,Inthelittlegreenorchard;EvenwhenthesunishighInnoon'suncloudedsky,AndfaintlydroninggoesThebeefromrosetorose,SomeoneinshadowissittingthereInthelittlegreenorchard.

Yes,whenthetwilight'sfallingsoftlyInthelittlegreenorchard;WhenthegreydewdistillsAndeveryflower-cupfills;Whenthelastblackbirdsays,'What-what!'andgoesherway-ssh!IhaveheardvoicescallingsoftlyInthelittlegreenorchard

NotthatIamafraidofbeingthere,Inthelittlegreenorchard;Why,whenthemoon'sbeenbright,Sheddingherlonesomelight,Andmothslikeghostiescome,Andthehornedsnailleaveshome:I'vesatthere,whisperingandlisteningthere,Inthelittlegreenorchard.

Onlyit'sstrangetobefeelingthere,Inthelittlegreenorchard;Whetheryoupaintordraw,Dig,hammer,choporsaw;

Whenyouaremostalone,Allbutthesilencegone...Someoneiswatchingandwaitingthere,Inthelittlegreenorchard.

POOR'MISS7'

Loneandaloneshelies,PoorMiss7,Fivesteepflightsfromtheearth,Andonefromheaven;Darkhairanddarkbrowneyes,-

Nottobesadshetries,Still-stillit'slonelyliesPoorMiss7.

Oneday-longwatchhathshe,PoorMiss7,NotinsomeorchardsweetInAprilDevon-Justfourblankwallstosee,Anddarkcomeshadowily,


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Nomoon,nostars,ahme!PoorMiss7.

Andthentowakeagain,PoorMiss7,Tothecoldnight,tohaveSourphysicgiven;Outofsomedreamofpain,ThenstrivelonghoursinvainDeepdreamlesssleeptogain:PoorMiss7.

YetmemorysoftlysingsPoorMiss7SongsfullofloveandpeaceAndgladnesseven;Clearflowersandtinywings,Alltender,lovelythings,Hopetoherbosombrings-HappyMiss7.

SAM

WhenSamgoesbackinmemory,ItistowheretheseaBreaksontheshingle,emerald-green,Inwhitefoam,endlessly;Hesays-withsmallbrowneyeonmine-'Iusedtokeepawake,Andleanfrommywindowinthemoon,Watchingthosebillowsbreak.Andhalfamilliontinyhands,Andeyes,likesparksoffrost,Woulddanceandcometumblingintothemoon,Oneverybreakertossed.Andallacrossfromstartostar,

I'veseenthewaterysea,Withnotasingleshipinsight,Justoceanthere,andme;Andheardmyfathersnore.Andonce,AssureasI'malive,Outofthosewallowing,moon-fleckedwavesIsawamermaiddive;Headandshouldersabovethewave,PlainasInowseeyou,Combingherhair,nowback,nowfront,Hertwoeyespeepingthrough;Callingme,'Sam!'-quietlike-'Sam!'...Butme....Ineverwent,

MakingbelieveIkindofthought'Twassomeoneelseshemeant....Wonderfullovelythereshesat,Singingthenightaway,AllinthesolitudinousseaOfthattherelonelybay.

P'raps,'andhe'dsmoothhishairlessmouth,'P'raps,if'twerenow,myson,Praps,ifIheardavoicesay,'Sam!'...


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Morningwouldfindwegone.'

ANDYBATTLE

Onceandtherewasayoungsailor,yeoho!AndhesailedoutoverthesayFortheisleswherepinkcoralandpalmbranchesblow,Andthefire-fliesturnnightintoday,Yeoho!Andthefire-fliesturnnightintoday.

ButtheDolphinwentdowninatempest,yeoho!Andwiththreeforsooksailorsashore,Theportingalestookhimwh'eresugar-canesgrow,Theirslavefortobeevermore,Yeoho!Theirslavefortobeevermore.

Withhismusketformotherandbrother,yeoho!HewarredwiththeCannibalsdrear,inforestswherepantherspadsofttoandfro,AndthePongoshakesnoondaywithfear,Yeoho!

AndthePongoshakesnoondaywithfear.

Nowleanwithlongtravail,allwastedwithwoe,Withamonkeyformessmateandfriend,Hesits'neaththeCrossinthecankeringsnow,Andwaitesforhissorrowfulend,Yeoho!Andwaitsforhissorrowfulend.

THEOLDSOLDIER

TherecameanOldSoldiertomydoor,

Askedacrust,andaskednomore;Thewarshadthinnedhimverybare,Fightingandmarchingeverywhere,WithaFolroldolroldido.

Withnosestuckout,andcheeksunkin,Abristlingbearduponhischin-PowderandbulletsandwoundsanddrumsHadcometothatSoldierassuchlikecomes-WithaFolroldolroldido.

'TwassweetandfreshwithbudsofMay,Flowersspringingfromeveryspray;

AndwhenhehadsuppedtheOldSoldiertrolledThesongofyouththatnevergrowsold,CalledFolroldolroldido.

Mostofhimrags,andallofhimlean,AndthebeltroundhisbellydrawntightsomeinHeliftedhispeakedoldgrizzledhead,Andtheseweretheverysamewordshesaid-AFol-rol-dol-rol-di-do.


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THEPICTURE

Hereisasea-leggedsailor,CometothistotteringInn,Justwhenthebronzeonitssignboardisfading,Andtheblackshadesofeveningbegin.,

Withhisheadonthickpawssleepsasheep-dog,TherestoopstheShepherd,andsee,Allfollow-my-leadertheduckswaddlehomeward,Underthesycamoretree.

VerybrownisthefaceoftheSailor,Hisbundleiscrimson,andgreenArethethickleafyboughsthathangdenseo'ertheTavern,Andbluethefarmeadowsbetween.

ButtheCrust,AleandCheeseoftheSailor,HisMugandhisplatterofDelf,AndthecrescenttolighthometheShepherdandSheep-dogThepainterhaskepttohimself.

THELITTLEOLDCUPID

'Twasaverysmallgarden;Thepathswereofstone,Scatteredwithleaves,Withmossovergrown;AndalittleoldCupidStoodunderatree,WithasmallbrokenbowHestoodaimingatme.

Thedog-roseinbriarsHungovertheweeds,

TheairwasaflockWiththefloatingofseed,AndalittleoldCupidStoodunderatree,WithasmallbrokenbowHestoodaimingatme.

Thedovecotewastumbling,Thefountaindry,AwindintheorchardWentwhisperingby;AndalittleoldCupidStoodunderatree,

WithasmallbrokenbowHestoodaimingatme.

KINGDAVID

KingDavidwasasorrowfulman:Nocauseforhissorrowhadhe;Andhecalledforthemusicofahundredharps,Toeasehismelancholy.


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Theyplayedtilltheyallfellsilent:Played-andplaysweetdidthey;ButthesorrowthathauntedtheheartofKingDavidTheycouldnotcharmaway.

Herose;andinhisgardenWalkedbythemoonalone,Anightingalehiddeninacypress-treeJargonedonandon.

KingDavidliftedhissadeyesIntothedark-boughedtree-''Tellme,thoulittlebirdthatsingest,Whotaughtmygrieftothee?'

ButthebirdinnowiseheededAndthekinginthecoolofthemoonHearkenedtothenightingale'ssorrowfulness,Tillallhisownwasgone.

THEOLDHOUSE

Avery,veryoldhouseIknow-Andeversomanypeoplego,Pastthesmalllodge,forlornandstill,Undertheheavybranches,tillComestheblankwall,andthere'sthedoor.Gointheydo;comeoutnomore.Novoicesaysaught;nosparkoflightAcrossthatthresholdcheersthesight;OnlytheeveningstaronhighLesslonelymakesalonelysky,As,onebyone,thepeoplegoIntothatveryoldhouseIknow.

BEASTS

UNSTOOPING

LowonhisfourstheLionTreadswiththesurlyBear',ButMenstraightupwardfromthedustWalkwiththeirheadsinair;Thefreesweetwindsofheaven,ThesunlightfromonhighBeatontheirclearbrightcheeksandbrowsAstheygostridingby;

ThedoorsofalltheirhousesTheyarchsotheymaygo,Upliftedo'erthefour-footbeasts,Unstooping,toandfro.

ALLBUTBLIND

AllbutblindInhiscamberedhole


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GropesforwormsThefour-clawedMole.

AllbutblindIntheeveningskyThehoodedBatTwirlssoftlyby.

AllbutblindIntheburningdayTheBarn-OwlblundersOnherway.

AndblindasareThesethreetome,SoblindtosomeoneImustbe.

NICHOLASNYE

Thistleanddarnellanddockgrewthere,Andabush,inthecorner,ofmay,OntheorchardwallIusedtosprawl

Intheblazingheatoftheday;Halfasleepandhalfawake,Whilethebirdswenttwitteringby,AndnobodytheremylonetoshareButNicholasNye.

NicholasNyewasleanandgray,Lameoflegandold,Morethanascoreofdonkey'syearsHehadbeensincehewasfoaled;Hemunchedthethistles,purpleandspiked,Wouldsometimesstoopandsigh,Andturntohishead,asifhesaid,

"PoorNicholasNye!"

Alonewithhisshadowhe'ddrowseinthemeadow,Lazilyswinginghistail,Atbreakofdayheusedtobray,--Notmuchtooheartyandhale;Butawonderfulgumptionwasunderhisskin,Andacleancalmlightinhiseye,Andonceinawhile;he'dsmile:--WouldNicholasNye.

Seemtobesmilingatme,hewould,Fromhisbushinthecorner,ofmay,--

Bonyandownerless,widowedandworn,Knobble-kneed,lonelyandgray;Andoverthegrasswouldseemtopass'Neaththedeepdarkblueofthesky,SomethingmuchbetterthanwordsbetweenmeAndNicholasNye.

Butduskwouldcomeintheappleboughs,Thegreenoftheglow-wormshine,Thebirdsinnestwouldcrouchtorest,


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AndhomeI'dtrudgetomine;Andthere,inthemoonlight,darkwithdew,Askingnotwhereforenorwhy,Wouldbroodlikeaghost,andasstillasapost,OldNicholasNye.

THEPIGSANDTHECHARCOAL-BURNER

TheoldPigsaidtothelittlepigs,'Intheforestistrufflesandmast,Followmethen,allyelittlepigs,Followmefast!'

TheCharcoal-burnersatintheshadeWithhischinonhisthumb,AndsawthebigPigandthelittlepigs,Chufflingcome.

Hewatched'neathagreenandgiantbough,AndthepigsinthegroundMadeawonderfulgrizzlingandgruzzlingAndagreedysound.

Andwhen,full-fedtheyweregone,andNightWalkedherstarryways,HestaredwithhischeeksinhishandsAthissullenblaze.

FIVEEYES

InHans'oldMillhisthreeblackcatsWatchthebinsforthethievingrats.Whiskerandclaw,theycrouchinthenight,Theirfiveeyessmoulderinggreenandbright:Squeaksfromthefloursacks,squeaksfromwhere

Thecoldwindstirsontheemptystair,Squeakingandscampering,everywhere.Thendowntheypounce,nowin,nowout,Atwhiskingtail,andsniffingsnout;WhileleanoldHanshesnoresawayTillpeepoflightatbreakofday;Thenupheclimbstohiscreakingmill,Outcomehiscatsallgreywithmeal--Jekkel,andJessup,andone-eyedJill.

GRIM

BesidetheblazeoffortyfiresGiantGrimdothsit,Roastingathick-woolledmountainsheepUponanironspit.Abovehimwheelsthewintersky,Beneathhim,fathomsdeep,LieshiddeninthevalleymistsAvillagefastasleep---SaveforonerestivehungrydogThat,snuffingtowardstheheight,


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SmellsGrim'sbroiledsupper-meat,andspiesHiswatch-firetwinklingbright.

TITFORTAT

Haveyoubeencatchingoffish,TomNoddy?Haveyousnaredaweepinghare?Haveyouwhistled,'NoNunny,'andgunnedapoorbunny,Orablindedbirdoftheair?

Haveyoutrodlikeamurdererthroughthegreenwoods,Throughthedewydeepdinglesandglooms,WhileeverysmallcreaturescreamedshrilltoDameNature,'Hecomes--andhecomes!'?

WonderIverymuchdo,TomNoddy,Ifever,whenyouarea-roam,AnOgrefromspacewillstoopaleanfaceAndlugyouhome:

Lugyouhomeoverhisfence,TomNoddy,Ofthorn-sticksnineyardshigh,WithyourbentkneesstrungroundhisoldirongunAndyourheaddan-danglingby:

Andhangyouupstiffonahook,TomNoddy,Fromastone-coldpantryshelf,Whenceyoureyeswillglareinanemptystare,Tillyou'recookedyourself!

SUMMEREVENING

ThesandycatbytheFarmer'schairMewsathiskneefordaintyfare;OldRoverinhismoss-greenedhouseMumblesabone,andbarksatamouseInthedewyfieldsthecattlelieChewingthecud'neathafadingskyDobbinatmangerpullshishay:Goneisanothersummer'sday.

EARTHFOLK

Thecatshewalksonpaddedclaws,

Thewolfonthehillslaysstealthypaws,Featheredbirdsintherain-sweetskyAttheireaseintheair,flitlow,flithigh.

Theoak'sblind,tenderrootspiercedeep,Hisgreencresttowers,dimmedinsleep,UnderthestarswhosethronesaresetWhereneverprincehathjourneyedyet.


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WITCHESANDFAIRIES

ATTHEKEYHOLE

'Grillmesomebones,'saidtheCobbler,'Somebones,myprettySue;I'mtiredofmylonesomewithheelsandsoles,Springsidesandupperstoo;Amouseinthewainscotisnibbling;Awindinthekeyholedrones;Andasheetwebbedovermycandle,Susie,---Grillmesomebones!'

'Grillmesomebones,'saidtheCobbler,Isatatmytic-tac-to;Andafootstepcametomydoorandstopped,Andahandgropedtoandfro;AndIpeeredupovermybootandlast;Andmyfeetwentcoldasstones:Isawaneyeatthekeyhole,Susie!---Grillmesomebones!'

THEOLDSTONEHOUSE

Nothingonthegreyroof,nothingonthebrown,Onlyalittlegreeningwheretheraindripsdown;Nobodyatthewindow,nobodyatthedoor,Onlyalittlehollowwhichafootoncewore;ButstillItreadontiptoe,stilltiptoeonIgo,Pastnettles,porch,andweedywell,foroh,IknowAfriendlessfaceispeering,andastillcleareyePeepscloselythroughthecasementasmystepgoesby.

THERUIN

WhenthelastcoloursofthedayHavefromtheirburningebbedaway,Aboutthatruin,coldandlone,Thecricketshrillsfromstonetostone;Andscatteringo'eritsdarkenedgreen,Bandsofthefairiesmaybeseen,Chatteringlikegrasshoppers,theirfeetDancingathistledowndanceroundit:WhilethegreatgoldofthemildmoonTingestheirtinyacornshoon.

THERIDE-BY-NIGHTS

UpontheirbroomstheWitchesstream,Crookedandblackinthecrescent'sgleam;Onefoothigh,andonefootlow,Bearded,cloaked,andcowled,theygo,'NeathCharlie'sWaintheytwitterandtweet,Andawaytheyswarm'neaththeDragon'sfeet,Withawhoopandafluttertheyswingandsway,Andsurgepell-melldowntheMilkyWay.BetwixtthelegsoftheglitteringChair


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Theyhoverandsqueakintheemptyair.ThenroundtheyswooppasttheglimmeringLionTowhereSiriusbarksbehindhugeOrion;Up,then,andovertowheelamain,Underthesilver,andhomeagain.

PEAKANDPUKE

FromhiscradleintheglamourieTheyhavestolenmyweebrother,HousedachangelinginhisswaddlingsFortofretmyownpoormother.PulesitinthecandlelightWi'acheeksoleanandwhite,ChinklingupitseynesoweeWailingshrillatheran'me.Itwe'llneitherrocknortendTilltheSilentSilentsend,LappingintheirawesomearmsHimtheystolewithspellsandcharms,TilltheytakethischangelingcreatureBacktoitsownfairynature--

Cry!Cry!Aslongasmaybe,Yeshallne'erbewoman'sbaby!

THECHANGELING

"Ahoy,andahoy!''Twixtmockingandmerry--'Ahoyandahoy,there,Youngmanoftheferry!'

ShestoodonthestepsInthewaterygloom---

ThatChangeling--'Ahoy,there!'Shecalledhimtocome.Hecameonthegreenwave,Hecameonthegrey,WherestoopedthatsweetladyThatstillsummer'sday.HefellinadreamOfherbeautifulface,AsshesatonthethwartAndsmiledinherplace.

Noechohisoarwoke,Floatsilentdidthey,

Pastlow-grazingcattleInthesweetofthehay.AndstillinadreamAtherbeautysathe,DriftingsternforemostDown--downtothesea.

Comeyou,then:call,WhenthetwilightapaceBringsshadowtobrood


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Ontheloveliestface;Youshallhearo'erthewaterRingfaintinthegrey---'Ahoy,andahoy,there!'Andtrembleaway;'Ahoy,andahoy!...'Andtrembleaway.

THEMOCKINGFAIRY

'Won'tyoulookoutofyourwindow,Mrs.Gill?'QuoththeFairy,niddling,noddinginthegarden;'Can'tyoulookoutofyourwindow,Mrs.Gill?'QuoththeFairy,laughingsoftlyinthegarden;Buttheairwasstill,thecherryboughswerestill,Andtheivy-tod'neaththeemptysill,AndneverfromherwindowlookedoutMrs.GillOntheFairyshrillymockinginthegarden.

'Whathavetheydonewithyou,youpoorMrs.Gill?'QuoththeFairybrightlyglancinginthegarden;'Wherehavetheyhiddenyou,youpooroldMrs.Gill?'QuoththeFairydancinglightlyinthegarden;

Butnight'sfaintveilnowwrappedthehill,Stark'neaththestarsstoodthedead-stillMill,AndoutofhercoldcottageneveransweredMrs.GillTheFairymimbling,mamblinginthegarden.

BEWITCHED

Ihaveheardaladythisnight,Lissomandjimpandslim,Callingme--callingmeovertheheather,'Neaththebeechboughsduskanddim.

Ihavefollowedaladythisnight,Followedherfarandlone,FoxandadderandweaselknowThewaysthatwehavegone.

Isitatmysupper'midhonestfaces,AndcrumblemycrustandsayNaughtinthelong-drawndrawlofthevoicesTalkingthehoursaway.

I'llgotomychamberunderthegable,Andthemoonwillliftherlight

InatmylatticefromoverthemoorlandHollowandstillandbright.

AndIknowshewillshineonaladyofwitchcraft,Gladnessandgrieftosee,Whohastakenmyheartwithhernimblefingers,Callsinmydreamstome;

WhohasledmeadancebydellanddingleMyhumansoultowin,


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Mademeachangelingtomyown,ownmother,Astrangertomykin.

THEHONEYROBBERS

ThereweretwoFairies,GimmulandMel,LovedEarthMan'shoneypassingwell;OftatthehivesofhistamebeesTheywouldtheirsugarythirstappease.

Whenduskbegantodarkentonight,Theywouldhiealonginthefadinglight,Withelf-lockedhairandscarletlips,Andsmallstoneknivestoslittheskeps,SosoftlynotabeeinsideShouldhearthewovenstrawdivide:AndthenwithslyandgreedythumbsWouldriflethesweethoneycombs.

Anddrowsilydronetodronewouldsay,'Acold,coldwindblowsinthisway';AndthegreatQueenwouldturnherheadFromfacetoface,astonished,

And,thoughhermaidswithcombandbrushWouldcombandsootheandwhisper,'Hush!'AboutthehivewouldshrillygoAkeening--keening,toandfro;Atwhichthoserobbers'neaththetreesWouldtauntandmockthehoney-bees,AndthroughtheirstickyteethwouldbuzzJustasanangryhornetdoes.

AndwhenthisGimmulandthisMelHadmunchedandsuckedandswilledtheirfill,OreverMan'sfirstcockcouldcrowBacktotheirFaerieMoundsthey'dgo;

Edgingacrossthetwilightair,Thievesofaguiseremotelyfair.

LONGLEGS

Longlegs--heyelled'Coo-ee!'AndallacrossthecombeShrillandshrillitrang--rangthroughThecleargreengloom.Fairiestherewerea-spinning,Andawhitetree-maidLiftedhereyes,andlistened

Inherrain-sweetglade.Bunnietobunniestamped;oldWatChin-deepinbrackensate;Athrostlepiped,'I'mby,I'mby!'Cleartohistimidmate.AndtherewasLonglegs,straddling,Andhearkeningwashe,TodistantEchothrillingbackAthin'Coo-ee!'


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MELMILLO

ThreeandthirtybirdstherestoodInanelderinawood;CalledMelmillo--flewoffthree,Leavingthirtyinthetree;CalledMelmillo--ninenowgone,Andtheboughsheldtwenty-one;CalledMelmillo--andeighteenLeftbutthreetonodandpreen;CalledMelmillo--three--two--oneNowofbirdswerefeathersnone.

ThenstoleMelmilloinTothatwoodallduskandgreen,AndwithleanlongpalmsoutspreadSoftlyastrangedancedidtread;NotanoteofmusicsheHadforechoingcompany;AllthebirdswereflowntorestInthehollowofherbreast;Inthewood--thorn,elder,willow--Dancedalone--lonedancedMelmillo.

EARTHANDAIR

TREES

OfallthetreesinEngland,Hersweetthreecornersin,OnlytheAsh,thebonnieAshBurnsfiercewhileitisgreen.

OfallthetreesinEngland,

Fromseatoseaagain,TheWillowlovelieststoopsherboughsBeneaththedrivingrain.

OfallthetreesinEngland,Pastfrankincenseandmyrrh,There'snoneforsmell,ofbloomandsmoke,LikeLimeandJuniper.

OfallthetreesinEngland,Oak,Elder,ElmandThorn,TheYewaloneburnslampsofpeaceForthemthatlieforlorn.

SILVER

Slowly,silently,nowthemoonWalksthenightinhersilvershoon:Thisway,andthat,shepeersandseesSilverfruituponsilvertrees;OnebyonethecasementscatchHerbeamsbeneaththesilverythatch;


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Couchedinhiskennel,likealog,WithpawsofsilversleepsthedogFromtheirshadowycotethewhitebreastspeepOfdovesinasilver-featheredsleep;Aharvestmousegoesscamperingby,Withsilverclawsandsilvereye;AndmovelessfishinthewatergleamBysilverreedsinasilverstream.

NOBODYKNOWS

OftenI'veheardtheWindsighBytheiviedorchardwall,Overtheleavesinthedarknight,Breatheasighingcall,AndfaintawayinthesilenceWhileI,inmybed,Wondered,'twixtdreamingandwaking,Whatitsaid.

NobodyknowswhattheWindis,Undertheheightofthesky,Wherethehostsofthestarskeepfarawayhouse

Anditswavesweepsby--Justagreatwaveoftheair,Tossingtheleavesinitssea,AndfoamingundertheeavesoftheroofThatcoversme.

Andsoweliveunderdeepwater,Allofus,beastsandmen,Andourbodiesareburieddownunderthesand,Whenwegoagain;Andleave,likethefishes,ourshells,AndfloatontheWindandaway,Towhere,o'erthemarvelloustidesoftheair,

Burnsday.

WANDERERS

Widearethemeadowsofnight,Anddaisiesareshiningthere,Tossingtheirlovelydews,Lustrousandfair;Andthroughthesesweetfieldsgo,Wanderersamidthestars--Venus,Mercury,Uranus,Neptune,Saturn,Jupiter,Mars.

'Tiredintheirsilver,theymove,Andcircling,whisperandsay,FairaretheblossomingmeadsofdelightThroughwhichwestray.

MANYAMICKLEAlittlesound---Onlyalittle,alittle---


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Thebreathinareed,Atremblingfiddle;Atrumpet'sring,Theshudderingdrum;Soalltheglory,bravery,hushOfmusiccome.

Alittlesound---OnlyastirandasighOfeachgreenleafItsflutteringneighborby;Oakontooak,Thewidedarkforestthrough---Soo'erthewaterywheelingworldThenightwindsgo.

Alittlesound,Onlyalittle,alittle---ThethinhighdroneOfthesimmeringkettle,Thegatheringfrost,Theclickofneedleandthread;Mother,thefadingwall,thedream,Thedrowsybed.

WILLEVER?

Willheeverbewearyofwandering,Theflamingsun?Everwearyofwaninginlovelight,Thewhitestillmoon?WilleverashepherdcomeWithacrookofsimplegold,AndleadallthelittlestarsLikelambstothefold?

WillevertheWanderersailFromoverthesea,Uptheriverofwater,Tothestonestome?Willhetakeusallintohisship,Dreaming,andwaftusfar,TowhereinthecloudsoftheWestTheIslandsare?

SONGS

THESONGOFTHESECRET

Whereisbeauty?Gone,gone:ThecoldwindshavetakenitWiththeirfaintmoan;Thewhitestarshaveshakenit,Tremblingdown,Intothepathlessdeepsofthesea.Gone,gone


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Isbeautyfromme.

TheclearnakedflowerIsfadedanddead;Thegreen-leafedwillow,Droopingherhead,WhisperslowtotheshadeOfherboughsinthestream,Sighingabeauty,Secretasdream.

THESONGOFTHESOLDIERS

AsIsatmusingbythefrozendyke,Therewasamanmarchingwithabrightsteelpike,Marchinginthedayshinelikeaghostcamehe,AndbehindmewasthemoaningandthemurmurOfthesea.

AsIsatmusing,'twasnotonebutten---Rankonrankofghostlysoldiersmarchingo'erthefen,Marchinginthemistyairtheyshowedindreamstome,Andbehindmewastheshoutingandtheshattering

ofthesea.

AsIsatmusing,'twasahostindarkarray,Withtheirhorsesandtheircannonwheelingonwardtothefray,Movinglikeashadowtothefatethebravemustdree,Andbehindmeroaredthedrums,rangthetrumpetsofthesea.

THEBEES'SONG

Thousandzofthornztherebe

OntheRozezwheregozezTheZebraofZee:Sleek,striped,andhairy,ThesteedoftheFairyPrincessofZee.

HeavywithblossomzbeTheRozezthatgrowzezInthethicketsofZee.WheregrazeztheZebra,MarkedAbracadeeebra,OfthePrincessofZee.

AndhenozezthatpoziezOftheRozezthatgrozezSoluvez'mandfree,Withaneye,darkandwary,InsearchofaFairy,WhoseRozezheknowzezWerenothoneyedforhe,ButtobreatheasweetincenseTosolacethePrincessOffar-awayZee.


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SONGOFENCHANTMENT

ASongofEnchantmentIsangmethere,Inagreen--greenwood,bywatersfair,JustasthewordscameuptomeIsangitunderthewildwoodtree.

WiddershinsturnedI,singingitlow,Watchingthewildbirdscomeandgo;NocloudinthedeepdarkbluetobeseenUnderthethick-thatchedbranchesgreen.

Twilightcame;silencecame;TheplanetofEvening'ssilverflame;BydarkeningpathsIwanderedthroughThicketstremblingwithdropsofdew.

ButthemusicislostandthewordsaregoneOfthesongIsangasIsatalone,Agesandageshavefallenonme---Onthewoodandthepoolandtheeldertree.

DREAMSONG

Sunlight,moonlight,Twilight,starlight-Gloamingatthecloseofday,Andanowlcalling,CooldewsfallingInawoodofoakandmay.

Lantern-light,taper-light,Torchlight,no-light:

Darknessattheshutofday,Andlionsroaring,TheirwrathpouringInwildwasteplacesfaraway.

Elf-light,bat-light,Touchwood-lightandtoad-light,Andtheseaashimmeringgloomofgrey,AndasmallfacesmilingInadream'sbeguilingInaworldofwondersfaraway.

THESONGOFSHADOWS

SweepthyfaintStrings,Musician,Withthylongleanhand;Downwardthestarrytapersburn,Sinkssoftthewaningsand;Theoldhoundwhimperscouchedinsleep,Theemberssmoulderlow;AcrossthewallstheshadowsCome,andgo.


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Sweepsoftlythystrings,Musician,Theminutesmounttohours;FrostonthewindlesscasementweavesAlabyrinthofflowers;Ghostslingerinthedarkeningair,Hearkenattheopendoor;Musichathcalledthem,dreaming,Homeoncemore.

THESONGOFTHEMADPRINCE

Whosaid,'PeacockPie?'TheoldKingtothesparrow:Whosaid,'Cropsareripe?'Rusttotheharrow:Whosaid,'Wheresleepsshenow?'Whererestsshenowherhead,Bathedineve'sloveliness'?---That'swhatIsaid.

Whosaid,'Ay,mum'stheword'?Sextontowillow:

Whosaid,'Greenduckfordreams,Mossforapillow'?

Whosaid,'AllTime'sdelightHathshefornarrowbed;Life'stroubledbubblebroken'?---That'swhatIsaid.

THESONGOFFINIS

ATtheedgeofAlltheAgesAKnightsateonhissteed,

HisarmorredandthinwithrustHissoulfromsorrowfreed;AndhelifteduphisvisorFromafaceofskinandbone,AndhishorseturnedheadandwhinniedAsthetwainstoodtherealone.

NobirdabovethatsteepoftimeSangofalivelongquest;Nowindbreathed,Rest:"Loneforanend!"criedKnighttosteed,Loosedaneagerrein--

Chargedwithhischallengeintospace:Andquietdidquietremain.

peacock pie, a book of rhymes by de la mare, walter, 1873-1956

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