Only the green and tender cloak of innocence shall endure--a little while--then, falling, enfold us twain embraced where only one had slept before.

A promised bride has spoken." She bowed her head, took my hands in hers, laid them lightly on her heart; then straightened up, with a long-drawn, quivering breath, and stood, eyes closed, as I unlaced her throat-points, parting the fawn-skin cape till the soft thrums lay on her snowy shoulders.
"It is true," I whispered.

"Under the folded leaves a Hidden Maid lies sleeping.

I bid her sleep awhile; I bid her dream in innocence through this White Bridal night.

I promise to disturb no leaf that sheathes her.