Melmillo

Three and thirty birds there stood In an elder in a wood; Called Melmillo -- flew off three, Leaving thirty in the tree; Called Melmillo -- nine now gone, And the boughs held twenty-one; Called Melmillo -- and eighteen Left but three to nod and preen; Called Melmillo -- three--two--one-- Now of birds were feathers none. Then stole slim Me.millo in To that wood all dusk and green, And with lean long palms outspread Softly a strange dance did tread; Not a note of music she Had for echoing company; All the birds were flown to rest In the hollow of her breast; In the wood -- thorn, elder willow -- Danced alone -- lone danced Melmillo.