A Ripple Song

1 
Once a ripple came to land
In the golden sunset burning
Lapped against a maiden's hand, 
By the ford returning.
2 
Dainty foot and gentle breast–
Here, across, be glad and rest. 
"Maiden, wait," the ripple saith; 
"Wait awhile, for I am Death!"
3 
"Where my lover calls I go– 
Shame it were to treat him coldly–
'Twas a fish that circled so, 
Turning over boldly."
4 
Dainty foot and tender heart, 
Wait the loaded ferry-cart. 
"Wait, ah, wait!" the ripple saith 
"Maiden, wait, for I am Death!" 
5 
"When my lover calls I haste 
Dame Disdain was never wedded" 
Ripple-ripple round her waist, 
Clear the current eddied.
6 
Foolish heart and faithful hand, 
Little feet that touched no land. 
Far away the ripple sped, 
Ripple-ripple running red!

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