V.

Thus ever and anon, this buoyant Child,
Free as the winds and as the waters wild,
With wayward whims the time beguiled:
Thus would the tranquil tenor of her joy
Still quicken into rapids of delight;
And break meandering into branches bright
Of manifold emotions that would rove
Diversely, but to give redoubled force
And sweet variety to one sure course—
Spreading and sparkling only to unite
In one broad current of unfailing Love.
page 310 Such simple arts would she employ
To tamper with, and tease, and toy
With her content, its depth to prove,
With sportive sallies—sly disguises,
Arch mockeries—mimicries—surprises;
So on her heart impress a sense
More varied, vivid, and intense,
Of bliss all golden-pure without alloy,
And Love no time could cool, no fond fruition cloy!