Will-O'-Wisp Poem by Charlotte Dacre

This elfin sprite, as ancient legends say,
Was fairy-born; on him they did bestow
The art to lead poor villagers astray,
For an offence some thousand years ago.

This elfin sprite with meteor lantern hies
Close to the edge of slimy pool or lake;
Still like an anxious guide before them flies,
Nor, till some mischief done, does them forsake.

This elfin sprite have many tried to seize,
Yet in the rash attempt have suffer'd sore;
With mockery of himself he will them teize,
Which grasping hard, they see him still before.

Then on to fairy land, in gay despight,
Upon a zephyr will this elfin ride;
And all the fays do at his lantern light
Their little torches, and the feast provide.

Now seated round the tulip's ample bowl,
To jocund elves he doth his wiles betray;
In mirthful glee the hours unheeded roll,
Till dawn just peeps, then swift they hie away.