English poem
To the Earl Russell, III
by Lionel Johnson (1867–1902)
Through the fresh woods there fleet Fawns, with bright eyes, light feet: Bright eyes, and feet that spurn The pure green fern.
Headed by leaping does, The swift procession goes Through thickets, over lawns: Followed by fawns.
Over slopes, over glades, Down dells and leafy shades, Away the quick deer troop: A wildwood group.
Under the forest airs, A life of grace is theirs: Courtly their look; they seem Things of a dream.
Some say, but who can say? That a charmed troop are they: Once youths and maidens white! These may be right.