'CINDERELLA,' BY MILLAIS
Fair Cinderella, in a pensive mood,
Kirtled in hodden-grey, and broom in hand,
Seems trembling on that mystic borderland—
That narrow strip entrenched 'twixt womanhood
And childish ways! Perplexing thoughts intrude
Upon her brain. Her Prince, though near, doth stand
As yet unseen; not yet the fairy wand
Hath changed uncertainty to certitude.
Deep, earnest eyes of wondering purity;
Vision of ruddy lips, and golden hair
Crowned with red cap of Liberty! Take care
How you exchange your maiden surety
For the full cup of love's maturity,
Lest you become less happy than you are!