The Dreaming Boy

To thee the world is still unknown and strange;

Still full of wild romance, as in those days

Ere England launched her forests on the sea.

Thou wilt discover in far mountain caves

Deserted, lamps left burning for thy feet,

And comfort in them more than kings are worth.

Ay, many a gate will open at thy call,

And wise men will come forth to welcome thee,

And bells will ring for pleasure in thy ear.

Great monsters in dark woods, with mighty mouths

That swallow their own faces when they yawn,

And mountain bears that carry on their backs

Rough, shaggy coats whose price compares with silk—

Will fall by thy strong, right, all-conquering arm.