Page:The Venetian Bracelet.pdf/166

Rh

A few brief moments, and those notes will be But echoes to the dancers' joyous steps. Why should they rouse in me such mournful thoughts? Recalling snatches of familiar songs, I've sung to those sweet airs, all sorrowful. I see the youthful warrior with his head Pillow'd upon his shield, but not for sleep; The maiden with her face upon her hands Bow'd in its last despair. What are the words? [Sings a few words in a low tone to herself.

And fitfully the embers raised A faint and passing flame; They miss'd her from her father's hearth, But call'd not on her name.