Page:TheBirth of the War-God.djvu/83

Rh Then at her Mother's hest, the Maid adored The spirit of each high ancestral Lord, Nor failed she next the noble Dames to greet, And give due honour to their reverend feet. They raised the Maiden as she bowed her head — " Thine be the fulness of his love! "—they said; Half of his being, blessing high as this Can add no rapture to her perfect bliss. Well-pleased viewed the pomp and pride Meet for his daughter, meet for 's bride. Then sought the Hall with all his friends to wait The bridegroom's coming with a Monarch's state.

Meanwhile by Heavenly Matrons' care displayed Upon 's lofty mount were laid The ornaments of, which of yore At his first nuptials 's conqueror wore; He laid his hand upon the dress, but how Shall robes so sad, so holy, grace him now?

His own dire vesture took a shape as fair As gentle bridegroom e'er could wish to wear— The withering scull that glazed the eye with dread, Shone a bright coronal to grace his head; That Elephant's hide the God had worn of old Was now a silken robe inwrought with gold; Ere this his body was with dust besprent. Soft unguent now it shed delightful scent; And that mid-eye which glittering like a star Shot the wild terror of its glance afar— So softly now its golden radiance beamed— A mark of glory on his forehead seemed.