The Pixies
The frost hath spread a shining net
Where late the autumn roses blew,
On lake and stream a seal is set
Where floating lilies charmed the view;
So silently the wonder grew
Beneath pale Dian’s mystic light,
I know my fancies whisper true,
The Pixies are abroad to-night.
When at the midnight chime are met
Together elves of every hue,
I trow the gazer will regret
That peers upon their retinue;
For limb awry and eye askew
Have oft proclaimed a fairy’s spite-
Peep slyly, gallants, lest ye rue,
The Pixies are abroad to-night.
’Tis said their forms are tiny, yet
All human ills they can subdue,
Or with a wand or amulet
Can win a maiden’s heart for you;
And many a blessing know to strew
To make the way to wedlock bright;
Give honour to the dainty crew,
The Pixies are abroad to-night.
Envoy.
Prince, e’en a prince might vainly sue,
Unaided by a fairy’s might;
Remember Cinderella’s shoe,
The Pixies are abroad to-night.
Samuel Minturn Peck.