HOLLY AND MISTLETOE

Said the Holly to the Mistletoe:

“Of this holy-tide what canst know,—

Thou a pagan — thou

Of the leafless bough?

My leaves are green, my scarlet berries shine

At thought of things divine!”

To the Holly spake the Mistletoe:

“Matters not, my leafless boughs but show

Berries pale as pearl —

Ask yon boy and girl!

If human mirth and love be not some sign

Of share in things divine!”