Page:The Vow of the Peacock.pdf/212

Rh

When he returned. How cheerfully the fields, Spread in their green luxuriance of corn, The purple clover, and the new-cut hay, Loading the air with fragrance! the soft river, Winding so gently! there seemed nothing changed, And Edward's heart was filled with gladness: all, He fancied, looked as if they welcomed him. His eyes filled with sweet tears, and hasty words Of love and thankfulness came to his lips. His path lay through the churchyard, and the bells Were ringing for a wedding. What fond thoughts They wakened, of how merrily their round Would peal for him and Marion! He kissed The broken ring, the braid of golden hair, And bounded, with light step and lighter heart, Across the churchyard; from it he could see