University of Virginia Library


14

AN ANCIENT ASIATIC HORSE-SHOE

When this grey world was young, and Tubal-Cain,
Blind Lamech's son, from the first anvil sent
The red sparks flying thro' his smithy-tent,
Who, of all mortal men, did first attain
The art of forging lance-head, stirrup, chain,
And sword-blade, and, with Jubal, did invent
Harp, cymbal, drum, and fluted instrument,
Ere on the Earth descended the long rain;
Then, maybe, ancient relic! obsolete
Of form and fashion, out of virgin ore
Thou wert contrived, and, haply, may'st have shod
In those old days with miracle replete,
The hoof of some such prancing steed as bore
A prophet's fiery chariot up to God!