There's a spirit
That dwells hereabout;
I saw him late one night
Drifting by the reed-bed
With a solitary lantern light.

I heard his voice
Far off;
A low and gathering sound
That set the forest shaking
As it echoed all around.

There was sadness
In his manner
But an anger in his throat
For the forest was dieing
All around the boat.

Then I saw him dancing
On the surface of the lake;
And his long fingers beckoned me
Will you join the dance?
Asked he.

But I thought about it
Much too long
And he faded from my sight;
Leaving just the question
Burning in the night.