On either side of them
As they glided onwards
The rich meadow-grass
Seemed that morning

Of a freshness and a greenness
Unsurpassable
Never had they noticed
The roses so vivid
The willow-herb so riotous
The meadow-sweet
So odorous and pervading

In midmost of the stream
A small island lay
Fringed close with willow
And silver birch

Reserved, shy, yet full of significance
It hid whatever it might hold
Behind a veil
Keeping it till the hour should come
And with the hour
Those who were called and chosen

Slowly but with no doubt or hesitation
And in solemn expectancy
The two animals passed
Through the broken water