雙語·叢林故事 漣漪之歌

A Ripple Song

Once a ripple came to land

　　In the golden 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!