At her first dance Miranda did appear
All clothèd in grey silks and silver thread,
And marvelled as the dancers gathered cheer
From music, light, and laughter, and she said,
"How many goodly creatures are there here!
How beauteous mousekind is! O brave new world,
That has such fine mice in it!" This is clear
To her: the flags of happiness, unfurled,
Wave in the bright wash of the big band's tune,
Flutter in pennons from the balcony,
Wave in ribbons at her waist. The moon
Looks in the window, singing harmony.

© Kevin Berland, 1999

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