University of Virginia Library


14

The Vindemia at Degli' Angeli

The ox was stalled, the last dark cluster pressed,
The last grape torrent to the vat was poured,
The knives laid by, the empty baskets stored,
The vineyard men and maidens all at rest;
But in the courtyard were the tables dressed
With flowers of flame, and round the cheerful board
—Not without thanks unto the Harvest's Lord—
The cup went round and merry was each guest.
Old toasts were given, and then beneath the blue
Of Fiesole's star-spangled Heaven we spoke
Our heart's content, and banished all our care.
Ah, never wine was poured, nor bread was broke
By gladder hands, while host and hostess true
Were entertaining angels unaware.