IN THE HOUR BEFORE 
REVOLT. 
 
“ . . . the green paradise which western waves 
Embosom in their ever-wailing sweep, 
Talking of freedom to their tongueless caves, 
Or to the spirits which within them keep 
A record of the wrongs which, though they sleep, 
Die not, but dream of retribution.” 
Adonais [cancelled passage]. 
 
 
ILD pennons of sunrise the splendid, 
 And scarlet of clustering flowers 
Cry aloud that the Winter is ended, 
Claim pace for the re-risen hours. 
The Ram in the Heavens exalted 
Calls War to uncover her wing ; 
Through skies that be hollow and vaulted 
Exulting the shouts of him ring : 
The Sign of the Spring. 
 
How hollows the heart of the heaven ! 
How light swells his voice for a cry ! 
The winter is shaken and riven, 
And death and the fruits of him die.
W
 
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