As I walked over Hollybush Hill
The sun was low and the winds were still,
And never a whispering branch I heard
Nor ever the tiniest call of a bird.
And when I came to the topmost height
Oh, but I saw such a wonderful sight,
All about on the hill-crest there
The fairies danced in the golden air.
Danced and frolicked with never a sound
In and out in a magical round;
Wide and wider the circle grew
Then suddenly melted into the blue.
* * * *
As I walked down into Eastnor Vale
The stars already were twinkling pale,
And over the spaces of dew-white grass
I saw a marvellous pageant pass.
Tiny riders on tiny steeds
Decked with blossoms and armed with reeds,
With gossamer banners floating far
And a radiant queen in an ivory car.
The beeches spread their petticoats wide
And curtseyed low upon either side;
The rabbits scurried across the glade
To peep at the glittering cavalcade.
Far and farther I saw them go
And vanish into the woods below;
Then over the shadowy woodland ways
I wandered home in a sweet amaze.
* * * *
But Malvern people need fear no ill
Since fairies bide in their country still.
MISS ROSE FYLEMAN.
Aug. 28, 1918.