197. Shifting like flashes, etc. That is, like the Northern Lights. Cf.
the Lay, ii. 86:
"And red and bright the streamers light
Were dancing in the glowing north.
.......
He knew by the streamers that shot so bright
That spirits were riding the northern light."
The MS. reads:
"Thick as the flashes darted forth
By morrice-dancers of the north;
And saw at morn their |barges ride,
|little fleet,
Close moored by the lone islet's side.
Since this rude race dare not abide
Upon their native mountain side,
'T is fit that Douglas should provide
For his dear child some safe abode,
And soon he comes to point the road."