Downing legends : stories in rhyme / J. W. DeForest [electronic text]

XLV

I trow that every stream enchanted Is passing glorious to behold; I trow its magic banks are haunted By goblin lords of mighty mould.

I trow those demons live in pleasure, Begirt with tower and castle wall, And often tread the festive measure, And banquet oft in princely hall.

And whoso reaches those dominions, They look adown and beck him in Because they long for earthly minions To serve for them at feasts of sin.

Ah, bitter woe to dazzled mortals Who enter where the fiends ordain! For none who pass those iron portals Shall issue forth or smile again.

Yea, also woe to spirits daring Who shake the head and hasten by! For griefs will follow their wayfaring Until they envy those who die.

No, neither just nor evil liver May wholly 'scape from hazards fell, Who ventures down enchanted river And dares the seraphim of Hell.