BALLAD.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16738, 20 May 1922, Page 6

BALLAD.

(BY BESSIE HEIGH'I‘ON). On an sunny autumn evening \thn ’twas sweet indeed to roam, Through the meadows starred with daisies, Percy Guise was going home. Fleet of foot, and joyous hearted, W'ith a spirit proud and gay, “'histling softly as he sauntered Down the blossom guarded way. “'ith his curly hair of raven, And his great black lnughing eyes Could you find more fitting hero, Than this haughty Percy Guise? He was heir unto an earldom, And a gallant lad was he, And he never went with any Save with those of high degree. By the dashing little brooklet Snt a mnid with eyes of blue. “'ith two dimples like kiss hollows And long curls of sunshine hue. Ahl Young love was surely lurking By the tin brook that houri And to careless hearts surrendered All unknowing to his power. Courtly men and noble ladies Tread the floors of Armstrong Hall, For from near and far came flocking Stately guests unto the hall. Through the mazes of the dances The admired of watching eyes, With the queen of wealth and beauty Floated handsome Percy Guise. Ere the clock had chimed the mid- - night, She was pledged to be his bride, And from every linnd came ringing Cheers. and jests from every side Ere the clock 11ml chimed the midnight, O’er a world of silver frost, And a. guilcless maiden Bleeping, I’m-Cy Cruise‘s youth was lost!