I <br /> <br />She can be as wise as we, <br />And wiser when she wishes; <br />She can knit with cunning wit, <br />And dress the homely dishes. <br />She can flourish staff or pen, <br />And deal a wound that lingers; <br />She can talk the talk of men, <br />And touch with thrilling fingers. <br /> <br />II <br /> <br />Match her ye across the sea, <br />Natures fond and fiery; <br />Ye who zest the turtle's nest <br />With the eagle's eyrie. <br />Soft and loving is her soul, <br />Swift and lofty soaring; <br />Mixing with its dove-like dole <br />Passionate adoring. <br /> <br />III <br /> <br />Such a she who'll match with me? <br />In flying or pursuing, <br />Subtle wiles are in her smiles <br />To set the world a-wooing. <br />She is steadfast as a star, <br />And yet the maddest maiden: <br />She can wage a gallant war, <br />And give the peace of Eden.<br /><br />George Meredith<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/marian/
