Contents -BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By HamlinGarland

1390 The Massasauga

A COLD coiled line of mottled lead,

He lies where grazing cattle tread,

And lifts a fanged and spiteful head.

His touch is deadly, and his eyes

Are hot with hatred and surprise—

Death waits and watches where he lies!

His hate is turned toward everything!

He is the undisputed king

Of every path and woodland spring.

His naked fang is raised to smite

All passing things; light

Is not swifter than his bite.

His touch is deadly, and his eyes

Are hot with hatred and surprise—

Death waits and watches where he lies!