The poems of Thomas Bailey Aldrich :: :: University of Virginia Library

'T is that fair time of year,
When stately Guinevere,
In her sea-green robe and hood,
Went a-riding through the wood.

And as the Queen did ride,
Sir Launcelot at her side
Laughed and chatted, bending over,
Half her friend and all her lover.

And as they rode along,
The throstle gave them song,
And the buds peeped through the grass
To see youth and beauty pass.

And on, through deathless time,
These lovers in their prime
(Two fairy ghosts together!)
Ride, with sea-green robe, and feather!

And so we two will ride,
At your pleasure, side by side,
Laugh and chat; I bending over,
Half your friend, and all your lover.

But if you like not this,
And take my love amiss,
Then I'll ride unto the end,
Half your lover, all your friend.

So, come which way you will.
Valley, upland, plain, and hill
Wait your coming. For one day
Loose the bridle, and away!