Page:The Improvisatrice.pdf/241

Rh

Were there in comely plenty; and some flowers, Heath from the mountains, and the wilding bush Gemm'd with red roses, and white apple blossoms, Were food for the two hives, whence all day long, There came a music like the pleasant sound Of lulling waters. And at even-tide It was a goodly sight to see around Bright eyes, and faces lighted up with health And youth and happiness: these were my children, That cottage was mine home....

There came a shadow o'er the land, and men Were hunted by their fellow men like beasts, And the sweet feelings of humanity Were utterly forgotten; the white head, Darkened with blood and dust, was often laid