I fancy the good fairies dressed in white, Glancing like moon-beams through the shadows black; Without much work to do for king or hack. Training perhaps some twisted branch aright; Or sweeping faded Autumn leaves from sight To foster embryo life; or binding back Stray tendrils; or in ample bean-pod sack Bringing wild honey from the rocky height; Or fishing for a fly lest it should drown; Or teaching water-lily heads to swim, Fearful that sudden rain might make them sink; Or dyeing the pale rose a warmer pink; Or wrapping lilies in their leafy gown, Yet letting the white peep beyond the rim. -- |