The MAIDEN's REPLY.
I
My love, of pilfering Danes the dread,
What warrior may abide?
A lion's painted on his head,
A dragon decks his side.
II
A wolf grins lovely on his chest,
A serpent twines his arms,
And captives' hides which form his vest
Add softness to his charms.
III
When forth he strides with martial glee,
No peasant dares to laugh;
He wears a bull upon each knee,
A cow on either calf.
IV
I know a little Druid's cell,
I know the Druid too,
And, if we ask him, who can tell,
What gold for us may do?
V
They say true lovers oft he weds,
And with a sacred bough
Sprinkles cold water on their heads,
To warm the mutual vow.
