Speeded the spindle poised by thread-whorl perfect of polish;

315

Thus as the work was wrought, the lengths were trimmed wi' the fore-teeth,

While to their thin, dry lips stuck wool-flecks severed by biting,

Which at the first outstood from yarn-hanks evenly fine-drawn.

Still at their feet in front soft fleece-flecks white as the snow-flake

Lay in the trusty guard of wickers woven in withies.

320

Always a-carding the wool, with clear-toned voices resounding

Told they such lots as these in song divinely directed,