Dedication - Fairy Legends of Ireland

THEE, Lady, would I lead through Fairy-land

(Whence cold and doubting reasoners are exiled),

A land of dreams, with air-built castles piled;

The moonlight Shefros there, in merry band

With artful CLURICAUNE, should ready stand

To welcome thee—Imagination's child!

Till on thy ear would burst so sadly wild

The BANSHEE'S shriek, who points with wither'd hand.

In the dim twilight should the Phooka come,

Whose dusky form fades in the sunny light,

That opens clear, calm Lakes upon thy sight,

Where blessed spirits dwell in endless bloom.

I know thee, Lady—thou wilt not deride

Such Fairy Scenes.—Then onward with thy Guide!