22. 1'he Ocean-nymphs and Hamadryades, 23. 24. Oreads and Naiads with long weedy locks, Under the earth, and in the hollow rocks, And in the gnarlèd heart of stubborn oaks; 66 "This may not be," the Wizard Maid replied. The boundless ocean like a drop of dew "And ye, with them, will perish one by one. Shall smile on your decay-oh ask not me I cannot die as ye must -Over me Your leaves shall glance-the streams in which ye dwell 25. She spoke and wept. The dark and azure well Sparkled beneath the shower of her bright tears, Flung to the cavern-roof inconstant spheres Of sobbing voices came upon her ears 26. All day the Wizard Lady sat aloof; Spelling out scrolls of dread antiquity Of some high tale upon her growing woof, Added some grace to the wrought poesy : 27. While on her hearth lay blazing many a piece She held a woof that dimmed the burning brand. 34. This boat she moored upon her fount, and lit Couched on the fountain-like a panther tame 35. Then by strange art she kneaded fire and snow It seemed to have developed no defect In gentleness and strength its limbs were decked; 37. From its smooth shoulders hung two rapid wings She led her creature to the boiling springs Where the light boat was moored, and said "Sit here," And pointed to the prow, and took her seat Beside the rudder with opposing feet. 38. And down the streams which clove those mountains vast, Around their inland islets, and amid The panther-peopled forests (whose shade cast 39. The silver noon into that winding dell, With slanted gleam athwart the forest tops, |