THE RED STAR. 
49 
IST NYMPH 
 
Name the sharp accursed shape,  
Stigma of its prodigy ! 
 
2ND NYMPH 
 
Is it but a whirling storm ? 
 
ALEXANDER 
 
Nay !  the star is cruciform. 
 
IST NYMPH 
 
Thus the holy cross is cloven  
From Pan’s purpose purple-woven.  
Even for centuries nine and ten,  
Life of women — death of men !  
In that sinister sad star  
Men shall bear the upright bar,  
Hanged for honesty and truth,  
Wisdom, courage, love, or youth.  
Women bear the cross-bar, living  
In the filth beyond believing.  
Svelte or buxom, fair or dark,  
Go to the maw of the greedy shark