A book of Bristol sonnets | ||
54
THE RED MAIDS' SCHOOL.
Those hands unto the heart for help did send,Who limned these red-skirt maidens, where they sit,
Weaving their humble futures as they knit,
Making a happy present as they mend!
For here, on one long bench, clear eyes befriend
The sightless; this—unto the tale will fit
Convenient moral; that—with childish wit
Will counsel take, or grave experience lend!
Wise little rulers of your playing yard,
Hoop-sticks your sceptres, orbs your knitting-balls!
Though by stern gates your liberties are barred,
Yours is a realm beyond the college walls;
For whiles at white-caped senators you play,
You found the order of a gentler day.
A book of Bristol sonnets | ||