King's Messenger

*
"The Book of Odes", by L. Cranmer-Byng, [1908],

p. 18

"KING'S Messenger\"

Galloping, galloping, gallant steed;

Six reins slackened and dull with sweat,

Galloping, galloping still we speed,

Seeking, counselling, onward set.

Galloping, galloping, piebald steed;

Six reins, silken reins, start and strain,

Galloping, galloping, still we speed,

News--what news--from the King's domain.

Galloping, galloping, white and black;

Six reins glossy and flaked with foam,

Galloping, galloping, look not back!

On for the King--for the King we roam.

Galloping, galloping, dappled grey;

Six reins true to the hand alone,

Galloping, galloping, night and day,

Seeking, questioning, galloping, gone!