Yet it seemed when I reached the poplar hole,
The ghost of a voice was crying, "Skoal!
"Rouse thee and drink, for the well is sweet,
And the crystal snow is good to eat!"
I heeded little, but stooped on my knee,
And ate of a handful dreamily.
'Twas cool to the mouth and slaking at first,
But the lure of it was ill for thirst.
The voice cried, "Soul of the mortal span,