XXVI

Stars in heaven are many, Suns in heaven but one: Nor for man may any Star supplant the sun.

Many a child as joyous As our far-off king Meets as though to annoy us In the paths of spring.

Sure as spring gives warning, All things dance in tune: Sun on Easter morning, Cloud and windy moon,

Stars between the tossing Boughs of tuneful trees, Sails of ships recrossing Leagues of dancing seas;

Best, in all this playtime, Best of all in tune, Girls more glad than Maytime, Boys more bright than June;

Mixed with all those dances, Far through field and street Sing their silent glances, Ring their radiant feet.

Flowers wherewith May crowned us Fall ere June be crowned: Children blossom round us All the whole year round.

Is the garland worthless For one rose the less, And the feast made mirthless? Love, at least, says yes.

Strange it were, with many Stars enkindling air, Should but one find any Welcome: strange it were,

Had one star alone won Praise for light from far: Nay, love needs his own one Bright particular star.

Hope and recollection Only lead him right In its bright reflection And collateral light.

Find as yet we may not Comfort in its sphere: Yet these days will weigh not When it warms us here;

When full-orbed it rises, Now divined afar: None in all the skies is Half so good a star;

None that seers importune Till a sign be won: Star of our good fortune, Rise and reign, our sun!