Tale of Archais

48 THE TALE OF ARCHAIS Might match for splendour, stretch, or airy speed, From cluster unto cluster at her need Of stars, wide waving, and from star to star Extended, in whose span the heavens are. So came she to the maiden, and unseen Gazed on her rapt. So sighed the amorous queen, “ For her indeed might Charicles despair ! ” Yet of her presence was the maiden ’ware, Although her mortal eyes might see her not ; So she knelt down upon that holy spot And greeted her with tears ; for now at last The fountains of her sorrow, vague and vast, Burst from the strong inexorable chain Of too great passion, and a mortal pain Beyond belief, and so in sudden waves Tears welled impatient from their crystal caves. (Men say those barren pinnacles are set Since then with jewels ; the white violet Was born of those pure tears ; the snowdrop grew Where waking hope her agony shot through, And where the Queen of Love had touched her tears, The new-born lily evermore appears.)