A Ripple Song

Once a ripple came to land In the golden sunset burning-- Lapped against a maiden's hand, By the ford returning.

Dainty foot and gentle breast-- Here, across, be glad and rest. 'Maiden, wait,' the ripple saith; 'Wait awhile, for I am Death!'

'Where my lover calls I go-- Shame it were to treat him coldly-- 'Twas a fish that circled so, Turning over boldly.'

Dainty foot and tender heart, Wait the loaded ferry-cart. 'Wait, ah, wait!' the ripple saith; 'Maiden, wait, for I am Death!'

'When my lover calls I haste-- Dame Disdain was never wedded!' Ripple-ripple round her waist, Clear the current eddied.

Foolish heart and faithful hand, Little feet that touched no land. Far away the ripple sped, Ripple--ripple--running red!