George Darley

Lenimina Laborum. 2. The Temptress of the Promontory

Step! and try how along the smooth ocean,
As safe as the sea-bird thou'lt wander to me!
Step! and feel how supreme the emotion,
To tread like an elve the green ooze of the sea!

Fear not, sweet youth!—there's no guile in these numbers,
"With me all the long summer's day shalt thou roam.
On the sweet-rocking waves of the west,—for thy slumbers
A couch of red coral swings light in the foam.

With songs I will lull thee, so dulcet, so tender,
The bee cannot murmur as soft to the rose;
With my bright golden harp, gentle youth, I will render
Thy slumbers as calm as an Angel's repose!

Step then, step! and we'll tread a wild measure
As far as the sunbeams lie smooth on the main!
Step! and try if so blissful a pleasure
Will ne'er tempt thee o'er the bright waters again!