Page:The Vow of the Peacock.pdf/47

38

But o'er those painted plumes are cast So many shadows from the past,— Those gorgeous ships which wont to bring The wealth of Ophir to that king Who ransacked earth and swept the main, To find their pleasures were in vain. Or from those purple feathers peep Faces which they have lulled to sleep, Cheeks of pale beauty, and dark eyes Wherein their eastern heaven lies; But tearful in their sleep, with dreams Of unforgotten mountain streams. Ah, childhood! lovely art thou, seen When care and passion intervene, And thou dost smile as smiles a star,— Calm, happy, undisturbed, but far.