DESOLATA

New Zealand Tablet, 4 July 1918, Page 11

DESOLATA

She came with daring foot from out green roads, And passing fleetly drew the eyes of men, Within her arms a fragrant torch of broom Leapt to a living flame, a. golden fire. And as she passed one murmured "She is rich, Her gold is brighter than the kowhai's keel " Another whispered softly "She draws love Fiercer than rata buds or wild gorse flame." And all agreed her heart must bloom in joy And riot like the blossoms at her breast, But she, she read their thought and stepping proud She reared her small head higher than Wild autumn petals blown along the wind, Yet knew the one thing sought her was denied And she must walk alone through all the years. E.D.