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The Book of Odes, by L. Cranmer-Byng, [1908], at sacred-texts.com


p. 18

KING'S MESSENGER

Galloping, galloping, gallant steed;
Six reins slackened and dull with sweat,
Galloping, galloping still we speed,
Seeking, counselling, onward set.

Galloping, galloping, piebald steed;
Six reins, silken reins, start and strain,
Galloping, galloping, still we speed,
News—what news—from the King's domain.

Galloping, galloping, white and black;
Six reins glossy and flaked with foam,
Galloping, galloping, look not back!
On for the King—for the King we roam.

Galloping, galloping, dappled grey;
Six reins true to the hand alone,
Galloping, galloping, night and day,
Seeking, questioning, galloping, gone!


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