42
POEMS BY CLARA A. MERRILL
TALES THAT WERE TOLD
A decanter and a crystal cup Met in a banquet hall; The rosy light of the sparkling wine Shed radiance over all. Ah, ha! old friend—and how is this— What is your mission here? "A pure, sweet spirit bid me come," Replied the water clear.
"So we have met," said the ruby wine, "Now let us social be,—Let's see who holds the greater power O'er the nation, you or me." "I can boast" said he, "of mighty deeds— I can tell you many a tale Of woe, and folly, sin and crime,— Can you, my friend so frail?
I have caused Old Age to droop and die— I have caused fair Youth to fade; I have blighted lives, and hopes destroyed,— When I strike there is no aid.
