Page:Moyarra- An Australian Legend in Two Cantos, 1891.djvu/24



Ere yet the day's returning beam Had crimson-tinged the distant hill, Or, glancing on the bubbling stream Lent joyous lustre to its rill. The chieftain rose, and gloomy strode Through twilight grey his lonely road. Morn came; around their watch-fires mustered The warrior chiefs: the children clustered In playful groups; in mimic war To combat some their brethren dare; Quick wielded by the dexterous hand, The club a fresh-peeled myrtle wand; The well-poised reed a spear supplies. While high, in rapid circles, flies The crescent toy whose airy flight6 Full oft attracts the wanderer's sight. Rapt in the counsels of the band One fondly clasps his father's hand, Each intimation of his will Quick to receive and to fulfil.