Tale of Archais

THE TALE OF ARCHAIS 79 CHARICLES Night her bright bow-string has bended ; Fast flies her arrow unsparing Through the beech-leaves, Æher it cleaves Rapid and daring. Ah! how it strikes as with silver ! how the sun’s laughter is ended ! ARCHAIS How the moon’s arms are extended ! Semi-Chorus of Men Rejoicing, inarticulate with pleasure, Joy streams a comet in the strong control Of the sun’s love ; weave, weave the eager measure, Fill the sea’s brim from pleasure’s foaming bowl ! Semi-Chorus of Women Weave, weave the dance ; the stars are not your goal. Freed slaves of Fortune, love’s your only treasure.