Classic Poem

A LAKE and a fairy boat
—To sail in the moonlight clear,—
And merrily we would float
—From the dragons that watch us here!

Thy gown should be snow-white silk,
—And strings of orient pearls,
Like gossamers dipped in milk,
—Should twine with thy raven curls.

Red rubies should deck thy hands,
—And diamonds be thy dower—
But fairies have broke their wands,
—And wishing has lost its power!