Kiss but the cold stone, the event is sure!

XV

Nay more: on May-morns, that primeval rite

Of temple-building, with its punishment

For rash precipitation, lingers, spite

Of all remonstrance; vainly are they shent,

Those girls who form a ring and, dressed in white,

Dance round it, till some sister's strength be spent:

Touch but the Menhir, straight the rest turn roughs

From gentles, fall on her with fisticuffs.