She seemed, at once, some penanced lady elf,
Some demon's mistress, or the demon's self.
Upon her crest she wore a wannish fire
Sprinkled with stars, like Ariadne's tiar;
Her head was serpent, but ah, bitter-sweet!
She had a woman's mouth with all its pearls complete."
"That," said the librarian, "I consider the gem of the collection."
"It is truly," I replied, "but I think it a profanation to have poor Lamia here."
"You don't consider—" began Mr. Gooch.