CHINESE ENVOY

Bright are the flowers

On those plains and lowlands.

In a great host go the travelers,

Each bent on keeping his place.

‘My horses are colts,

My six reins are glossy ;

I will speed, I will gallop,

Everywhere asking for counsel.’

‘My horses are dappled,

My six reins are like the threads of a

loom.

I will speed, I will gallop,

Everywhere asking for instructions.’

‘My horses are white with black manes,

My six reins are all greased.

I will speed, I will gallop,

Everywhere asking for good plans.’

‘My horses are brindled,

The six reins are very level.

I will speed, I will gallop,

Everywhere asking for advice.’

 

Laura Gilpin Photographs: 

Upper:  The Prelude, New York, Edith Rubel Trio, 1917, Platinum print.

Lower:  Thundercloud near Thoreau, New Mexico, June 18, 1933, Nitrate negative.

John Cale: Chinese Envoy (Link)