Iii

Flood hath swallowed dikes and hedges, Lately by Sesostris planned; Till, like ropes, its matted edges Quiver on the desert sand.

Then each farmer, brisk and mellow, Graspeth by the hand his fellow; And, as one gone labour-proof, Shakes his head at the drowned shadoof

Soon the Nuphar comes, beguiling Sedgy spears, and swords around, Like that cradled infant smiling, Whom, the royal maiden found.