The Gambols of Children

George Darley (1795–1846)

DOWN the dimpled greensward dancing,

Bursts a flaxen-headed bevy,—

Bud-lipt boys and girls advancing,

Love’s irregular little levy.

Rows of liquid eyes in laughter,

How they glimmer, how they quiver!

Sparkling one another after,

Like bright ripples on a river.

Tipsy band of rubious faces,

Flushed with Joy’s ethereal spirit,

Make your mocks and sly grimaces

At Love’s self, and do not fear it.