Page:The Collected Poems of Dora Sigerson Shorter.djvu/39



was the Black Earl Roderick Who rode towards the south; The frown was heavy on his brow, The sneer upon his mouth.

Behind him rode a hundred men All gay with plume and spear; But not a one did lilt a song His weary way to cheer.

So stern was Black Earl Roderick Upon his wedding day, To none spoke he a single word Who met him on his way.

And when he reached the castle old, Wherein his bride did wait, He blew three blasts upon the horn That hung beside the gate.

“Now who be you who blow so strong, And all so gaily ride?” “It is the Black Earl Roderick Who comes to claim his bride.”

“Come in, come in, Earl Roderick, Come in, the hour is late; The priest is ready in his stole, The wedding guests await.”