The Sister's Shame

by Alfred Lord Tennyson

　　

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We were two daughters of one race; She was the fairest in the face. The wind is blowing in turret and tree. They were together, and she fell; Therefore revenge became me well. O, the earl was fair to see! She died; she went to burning flame; She mix’d her ancient blood with shame. The wind is howling in turret and tree. Whole weeks and months, and early and late, To win his love I lay in wait. O, the earl was fair to see! I made a feast; I bade him come; I won his love, I brought him home, The wind is roaring in turret and tree. And after supper on a bed, Upon my lap he laid his head. O, the earl was fair to see! I kiss’d his eyelids into rest, His ruddy cheeks upon my breast. The wind is raging in turret and tree. I hated him with the hate of hell, But I loved his beauty passing well. O, the earl was fair to see! I rose up in the silent night; I made my dagger sharp and bright. The wind is raving in turret and tree. As half-asleep his breath he drew, Three time I stabb’d him thro’ and thro’. O, the earl was fair to see! I curl’d and comb’d his comely head, He looked so grand when he was dead. The wind is blowing in turret and tree. I wrapt his body in the sheet, And laid him at his mother’s feet. O, the earl was fair to see!

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