MARIAN

She can be as wise as we,

And wiser when she wishes;

She can knit with cunning wit,

And dress the homely dishes.

She can flourish staff or pen,

And deal a wound that lingers;

She can talk the talk of men,

And touch with thrilling fingers.

Match her ye across the sea,

Natures fond and fiery;

Ye who zest the turtle's nest

With the eagle's eyrie.

Soft and loving is her soul,

Swift and lofty soaring;

Mixing with its dove-like dole

Passionate adoring.

Such a she who'll match with me?

In flying or pursuing,

Subtle wiles are in her smiles

To set the world a-wooing.

She is steadfast as a star,

And yet the maddest maiden:

She can wage a gallant war,

And give the peace of Eden.