To punch through the clouds when a storm is o’er,
In order that he may see
If the Raindrops have finished their work and left
All things as they ought to be.
His throne is a glorious blaze of light;
And round on all sides there stand
Hundreds of Elves as ambassadors
From each separate Fairy Band.
But close to the throne his advisers sit,—
Four fellows well known to all:
They are General Winter, Lieutenant Spring,
Sir Summer, and Captain Fall.
When this Sun King returns from his ride each night,
He sits on his throne in state;
While his servants light up the sunset clouds
Till the Stars at his palace gate
Bring warning that Night is drawing nigh,
And Daylight has nearly fled;
Then he kisses the mountain-tops “good-night,”
And leisurely goes to bed.
But when he’s asleep, who rules the world?
Who could, pray, except the Moon?
For she is the Queen of the Midnight Skies,
As he is the King of the Noon.
