That was my play-place ever as a child;

And with me used to play a kinsman's son,

Antonio Rondinelli. Ah, dear days!

Two happy things we were, with none to chide,

Or hint that life was anything but play.

Sudden the play-time ended. All at once

"You must wed," they told me. "What is wed?"

I asked; but with the word I bent my brow,

Let them put on the garland, smiled to see

The glancing jewels tied about my neck;