The Swallows

Gallant and gay in their doublets gray,

All at a flash like the darting of flame,

Chattering Arabic, African, Indian—

Certain of springtime, the swallows came!

Doublets of gray silk and surcoats of purple,

And ruffs of russet round each little throat,

Wearing such garb they had crossed the waters,

Mariners sailing with never a boat.