Classic Poem

A NIMULA , vagula, blandula,
Hospes, comesque, corporis,
Quae nunc abibis in loca?
Pallidula, rigida, nudula,
Nec, ut soles, dabis jocos?

I.

Pleasant little fluttering sprite,
Long my bosom's merry guest,
Whither now to wing thy flight?
Ah! thou frozen little wight,
Pale, and naked, and unblest,
Never more a jibe or jest?

II.

Soft little butterfly-guest of my heart,
Whither now flittest thou, spirit of mine,
Wo! for thy merriment must it depart,
Naked, and frigid, and pallid to pine?

III.

Soul, thou tiny truant dear,
Bosom-friend for many a year,
Restless little darling, say,
Whither stealest thou away?
Pallid as a fainting maid,
Naked, icy-cold, afraid,
Is then all thy wit in vain?
Shalt thou never laugh again?