Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1900.djvu/972

 CHRISTINA GEORGINA ROSSETTI

1830-1894

779. Bride Song

FROM 'THE PRINCE'S PROGRESS'

Too late for love, too late for joy, Too late, too late! You loiter'd on the road too long, You trifled at the gate: The enchanted dove upon her branch Died without a mate; The enchanted princess in her tower Slept, died, behind the grate; Her heart was starving all this while You made it wait.

Ten years ago, five years ago, One year ago, Even then you had arrived in time, Though somewhat slow; Then you had known her living face Which now you cannot know: The frozen fountain would have leap'd. The buds gone on to blow, The warm south wind would have awaked To melt the snow.

Is she fair now as she lies? Once she was fair; Meet queen for any kingly king, With gold-dust on her hair.