Classic Poem

Quaff the mid-forest spring! Sink palms and knees
In the deep moss and let the big rank ferns
Strike on the flushed cheek and the fevered neck,
And let your hair, warmed in those sultry shades,
Float, with the oozy twigs and yellow leaves,
The near black water! O with pursed lips
Quaff till you feel it cool in heart and frame —
Then up through pines and thickets to the light!

Yonder the valley and the mountain lake!
The sunset clouds are trembling in the waves,
The wild deer drink among the windy rocks;
And you shall call for joy aloud, and hear
A mountain echo that will die away
Seven times repeated on the crimson air!