IV.

I saunter up the walks; My sandals wetted through With dripping flowers and stalks, That line the avenue; My broidered mantle all bedabbled with the dew! I climb a flight of steps with regal pride, And stroll along an echoing colonnade, Sweeping against its pillared balustrade, Adown a porch, and through a portal wide, And I am in my Castle, Lord of all; My faithful groom is standing in the hall To doff my shining robe, while servitors, And cringing chamberlains beside the doors Waving their gilded wands, obsequious wait, And bow me on my way in royal pomp and state!