The Unknown Knight

When purple gloomed the wintry ridge

Against the sunset's windy flame,

From pine-browed hills, along the bridge,

An unknown rider came.

I watched him idly from the tower.

Though he nor looked nor raised his head;

I felt my life before him cower

In dumb, foreboding dread.

I saw him to the portal win

Unchallenged, and no lackey stirred

To take his bridle when within

He strode without a word.

Through all the house he passed unstayed,

Until he reached my father's door;

The hinge shrieked out like one afraid;

Then silence fell once more.

All night I hear the chafing ice

Float, griding, down the swollen stream;

I lie fast-held in terror's vice,

Nor dare to think or dream.

I only know the unknown knight

Keeps vigil by my father's bed:

Oh, who shall wake to see the light

Flame all the east with red?