XLVI.—THE TWO LAMENTS.
( FROM THE GERMAN.)
Over a new-filled grave a maiden tender,1
Planted with tears and prayer a poplar slender.2
“ Grow, grow, fair tree,” she said,3
“ Lift to the stars thy head,4
Where dwells unseen my love ;5
Rise, ever rise above !6
“ Let every branch aspire,7
As do my arms, mine eyes,8
Till with my soul’s desire,9
Thy summit, mounting higher,10
Be hidden in the skies.11
O poplar ! on this dear mound ever show12
A faithful emblem of my love and woe.”13
Over a new-made grave a lover bending,14
A willow planted, every leaf down-tending.15
“ Droop low to weep,” he said,16
“ Above my blue-eyed maid ;17
Sad tree, still earthward bow,18
As doth my spirit now.19
“ Droop till thy verdant tresses20
The hallowed cold turf sweep,21
Mingling their light caresses22
With these my fond lip presses,23
Where my beloved doth sleep.24
O willow ! on this dear mound shalt thou grow,25
A faithful emblem of my love and woe.”26