Page:Verses–Blanche·Baughan-1898.pdf/127

 Straight He leapt to land, and clasp’d her as she stood. And she, forgetting all the sun and sea, Saw but his eyes, felt but his kiss, and knew This was indeed her bridegroom. So they met.

But now a babble of voices rose around— The wondering children shouting, and the maids Down the white stairway flocking towards the twain, Tumultuous with joy, to lead them in. So then Nereia took her lover’s hand, And led him to the palace. Very white And snow-white was it, in the morning sun. Only the almond blossom hung her veil, Mazy and delicate, before the gates, And, on the topmost terrace, oranges Leant their gold shadowless discs, full-orb’d and bright,