Page 2714 - Shakespeare - Vol. 1

Now it is time of night [370]
That the graves, all gaping wide,
Every one lets forth his sprite
In the church-way paths to glide.
And we fairies, that do run
By the triple Hecate’s team [375]
From the presence of the sun,
Following darkness like a dream,
Now are frolic; not a mouse
Shall disturb this hallow’d house.
I am sent with broom before [380]
To sweep the dust behind the door.

Enter Oberon and Titania the King and Queen of Fairies, with all their
Train.

OBERON

Through the house give glimmering light
By the dead and drowsy fire;
Every elf and fairy sprite
Hop as light as bird from briar; [385]
And this ditty after me
Sing, and dance it trippingly.

T IT ANIA

First rehearse your song by rote,
To each word a warbling note;
Hand in hand, with fairy grace, [390]
Will we sing, and bless this place.

(Oberon leading, the Fairies sing and dance.)

OBERON

Now, until the break of day,
Through this house each fairy stray.
To the best bride-bed will we,
Which by us shall blessed be; [395]
And the issue there create
Ever shall be fortunate.
So shall all the couples three
Ever true in loving be;
And the blots of Nature’s hand [400]