The ancient tribes, when they and earth were new, Dwelt on lush emerald fields, set in a frame Of silver streams, and hunted willing game; Fat with unending feasts: for Awanyu, Plumed serpent-god of water sources, threw His rivers down to them . . . till they became Indifferent and ceased to bless his name. Then, to the deeps of heaven he withdrew. Long must dry lips of thirsty deserts pray Before the rain's cool cup is theirs to take. Still, Awanyu, who is the Milky Way, Unpardoning, swims down his dark sky lake. Did padres know, who at San Felipe Carved round a font the image of a snake? |