L’Envoi. To the Countess Von C——, Bonn.
Reading edition
I.
This the Legend of the Drachenfels— Sweet theme, most feebly sung; and yet to me My feeble song is grateful; for it tells Of far-off smiles and voices. Though it be Unmeet, fair Lady, for thy breast or bower, Yet thou wilt wear, for thou didst plant the flower.
II.
It had been worthier of such birth and death If it had bloomed where thou didst watch its rise, Framed by the zephyr of the fragrant breath, Warmed by the sunshine of thy gentle eyes, And cherished by the love, in whose pure shade No evil thing can live, no good thing fade.
III.
It will be long ere thou wilt shed again Thy praise or censure on my childish lays— Thy praise, which makes me happy more than vain, Thy censure, kinder than another’s praise. Huge mountains frown between us, and the swell Of the loud sea is mocking my farewell.
IV.
Yet not the less, dear Friend, thy guiding light Shines through the secret chambers of my thought; Or when I waken, with revived delight, The lute young Fancy to my cradle brought, Or when I visit with a studious brow The less-loved task, to which I turn me now.