Page:Poems - Tennyson (1843) - Volume 1 of 2.djvu/201

xxiv.

"I had great beauty: ask thou not my name:

No one can be more wise than destiny.
Many drew swords and died. Where'er I came
I brought calamity."

xxv.

"No marvel, sovereign lady! in fair field,

Myself for such a face had boldly died,"
I answer'd free, and turning I appeal'd
To one that stood beside.

xxvi.

But she, with sick and scornful looks averse,

To her full height her stately stature draws;
"My youth," she said, "was blasted with a curse:
This woman was the cause.

xxvii.

"I was cut off from hope in that sad place,

Which yet to name my spirit loathes and fears:
My father held his hand upon his face;
I, blinded with my tears,