“A Ripple SongOnce a ripple came to landIn the sunset burning-Lapped against a maiden's hand, By the ford returning.Dainty foot and gentle breast-Here, across, be glad and rest."Maiden, wait," the ripple saith"Wait awhile, for I am Death!"'Where my lover calls I go-Shame it were to treat him coldly-'Twas a fish that circled so,Turning over boldly.'Dainty foot and tender heart,Wait the loaded ferry-cart."Wait, ah, wait!" the ripple saith;"Maiden, wait, for I am Death!"'When my lover calls I haste-Dame Disdain was never wedded!'Ripple-ripple round her waist,Clear the current eddied.Foolish heart and faithful hand,Little feet that touched no land.Far away the ripple sped,Ripple-ripple-running red!”