248
LADY GERALDINE'S COURTSHIP.
While the gliding of the river sends a rippling noise for ever,
Through the open casement whitened by the moonlight's slant repose.
Said he—"Vision of a lady! stand there silent, stand there steady!
Now I see it plainly, plainly; now I cannot hope or doubt—
There, the cheeks of calm expression—there, the lips of silent passion,
Curved like an archer's bow, to send the bitter arrows out."
Ever, evermore the while in a slow silence she kept smiling,—
And approached him slowly, slowly, in a gliding measured pace;
With her two white hands extended, as if praying one offended,
And a look of supplication, gazing earnest in his face.
