An otter snapped a thorn twig when he came,

It drifted down, it passed the Hazel Mill,

It passed the Springs; but Jimmy stayed there still.

Over the pointed hill-top came the light

Out of the mists on Ercall came the sun,

Red like a huntsman halloing after night,

Blowing a horn to rouse up everyone;

Through many glittering cities he had run,

Splashing the wind vanes on the dewy roofs

With golden sparks struck by his horses' hoofs.