TWENTY

A Riddle

One night, a party round the fire I found

Pleased with the cheerful blaze it cast around;

The foremost was a tall and lively lad,

Nimble of thought he seemed, and lightly clad;

A radiant nymph did next the circle grace

Sparkling and brilliant, fairest of her race:

A sober matron then the circle pressed,

Who seemed the guardian of a younger guest;

Apart from all a dreaded warrior sate,

Whose brows overshadowed eyes of vengeful hate:

A father joined the throng in belted pride

And four fair daughters graced his reverent side:

Next I could mark a greedy dull old beau

Who strove, with foppish pride, a ring to show.

Come join me in a heavenly turn,

These famous wanderers’ names to learn.