Note 120 — SONG OF ROXANA.[120] A PERSIAN POEM.
Reading edition
This, and the ensuing and very superior poem, the Song of Zillia, are from the under-written prose translations, of strains, sung by dancing nymphs in Persia, at the Grand Vizier’s feast, at which a gentleman was present, who made these prose translations.
SONG OF ROXANA, A NAME SIGNIFYING SPLENDOUR.
I.
“When, O my beloved Lord, will thou return? My heart’s idol, my soul’s treasure! when wilt thou return to bless the eyes of thy Roxana?—In vain do I look for thee—my eye-lids ache in watching for thy approach.
II.
“The sofa for my beloved is dressed with garlands of jessamine. I have strewed it with the beauties of my garden, and perfumed it with the oil of roses.
III.
“My chamber is scented with the rich essence of the Latura. Hasten then, my beloved!—every thing is prepared for thy reception. Gladden the heart of thine handmaid by thy presence, thou first of her joys, chief happiness of her soul!”