Contents -BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

Arthur Quiller-Couch, comp. The Oxford Book of Victorian Verse. 1922.

Fading-leaf and Fallen-leaf

Richard Garnett (1835–1906)

SAID Fading-leaf to Fallen-leaf:—

‘I toss alone on a forsaken tree,

It rocks and cracks with every gust that racks

Its straining bulk; say, how is it with thee?’

Said Fallen-leaf to Fading-leaf:—

‘A heavy foot went by, an hour ago;

Crushed into clay I stain the way;

The loud wind calls me, and I cannot go.’

Said Fading-leaf to Fallen-leaf:—

‘Death lessons Life, a ghost is ever wise;

Teach me a way to live till May

Laughs fair with fragrant lips and loving eyes.’

Said Fallen-leaf to Fading-leaf:—

‘Hast loved fair eyes and lips of gentle breath?

Fade then and fall—thou hast had all

That Life can give: ask somewhat now of Death.’