Page:Troubadour.pdf/327



The spent stag on the grass is laid, But over him is bent a maid, Her arms and fair hair glistening With the bright waters of the spring. foundation of this tale was taken from the exquisite and wild legend in the Bride of Lammermuir. It is venturing on hallowed ground; but I have the common excuse for most human errors,—I was tempted by beauty.

Bends not the mountain cedar trees, Folding their branches from the breeze.

Some ancient travellers assert, that in winter the cedars of Lebanon fold their branches together, and in this spiral form defy the storms which would otherwise destroy their outstretched limbs. I believe the fact is not well authenticated, but enough for the uses of poetry.