Classic Poem

I.

There is an old and costly room of state,
With roof deep-groined of blazoned shields and flowers,
And arras rich with gold and silver weight,
Hangs round the walls, and shows green forest bowers.

II.

And figures blent of giant, dwarf, and knight,
Of lady fair, and palfrey, hawk and hound,
Amid those leafy cells the gaze invite,
Invite yet mock, for leaves half close them round.

III.

In order set are works of regal price,
Quaint carven chair and table, chest and lute;
And web of scarlet, black, and gold device,
Spread o'er the floor makes every footstep mute.

IV.

The windows' shafts and loops of branching stone
Are gemmed with panes of each imperial hue,
Where saint and angel from the stars new flown,
With streams of crystal splendor flood the view.

V.

They fall with fondest brightness o'er the form,
Of her who sits the chamber's lovely dame,
And her pale forehead in the light looks warm,
And all those colors round her whiteness flame.