Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

George Darley 1795–1846

Songs from “Sylvia; Or, the May Queen.” I. Chorus of Spirits

Darley-G

GENTLY!—gently!—down!—down!

From the starry courts on high,

Gently step adown, down

The ladder of the sky.

Sunbeam steps are strong enough

For such airy feet:

Spirits, blow your trumpets rough,

So as they be sweet!

Breathe them loud, the Queen descending,

Yet a lowly welcome breathe,

Like so many flowerets bending

Zephyr’s breezy foot beneath.