30 APRIL 1910, Page 17

POETRY.

NANCY.

Nov softer clouds shade evening skies Than deepen in her shining eyes ; Nor gayer than her laugh at me Is morning sunlight on the sea!

Like mountain air 'mid dewy grass The musings of my 1 ttle lass !- With her my dusty thoughts regain Greenness like leaves in tender rain.

Ab yes, you smile ! But I confess I simply dare not love her less, Or scorn heaven's well-inverted plan That makes the child protect the man.

Sin, strong as boa's living snare, Glides past, surprised to find her there. The stealthy ills that suck my breath Draw hers in mine, and feel it death.

But if I gravely stoop to kiss That little mischief-loving miss, She scampers off, with teasing spite, And furtive glances of delight !