New Zealand Verse/A New Zealand Picture

XXII.

A New Zealand Picture.

Otaki, that rollest in thy pride,First among the rivers far and near,Little streamlet, flowing blue and clear,Ocean, with your strong imperious tide.
Russet bushes, sandhills waste and wide,Pointed flax blades, shining vivid green,Scarlet spotted spiders, rarely seenSave by those who know where you abide.
Grey and orange grass, that creeps to bindShifting sands and bid them stay and rest,Dear and lovely are you all in kind.
Each is touched with a peculiar grace;And the soul that loves and watches, bestLearns the wonders of this happy place.

Mary E. Richmond.