Plied her swift wheel, and with her joyless mien 14. She had known sorrow,--he had walk'd with her, 15. While yet her cheek was bright with summer bloom, 16. Regave the swords-but not the hand that drew, 17. Long, but not loud, the droning wheel went on, Breathed through her lips a sad and tremulous tune. 18. At last the thread was snapp'd, her head was bow'd; Life droop'd the distaff through his hands serene, And loving neighbors smooth'd her careful shroud,— While Death and Winter closed the autumn scene. T. BUCHANAN READ THE END. |