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1853–1922

THE DANCER

Thomas Nelson Page

You say the gods and muses all From earth now banished be? Will you believe that yester-eve I saw Terpsichore?

Her robe of snow and gossamer Enclad a form most neat; Such sandals green were never seen As shod her twinkling feet.

Her every step was melody, Her every motion grace, That one might prize a thousand eyes To note both form and face.

The motes that dance in sunny beams Tripped never in such wise; This lovely sprite danced in the light That beamed from her own eyes.

A man's head once was danced away — You know how it befell? My dainty fay danced yesterday Men's hearts away as well.

What‘ s that?‘ Twas but a graceful girl That took the hearts for pelf? Nay, I was there, and‘ t was, I swear, Terpsichore herself.

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THE DANCER · Thomas Nelson Page · Poetry Cove