I. UP spoke the Goldsmith proudly Unto his daughter fair: "Ah! here are pearls and diamonds, And rubies rich and rare; But none with thee, my Helen, In beauty can compare!" II. In came a knight so gayly, A youth of noble mien; With "I would have a garland, The finest e'er was seen: Spare neither cost nor labor; 'T is for my bridal queen." III. The work is done; and Helen Cried, "Lucky bride is she Who wears this splendid garland! Ah! would he give to me A simple wreath of roses, How happy I should be!" IV. "'T is well," the knight made answer, When he the wreath had seen; "Now make a ring with diamonds, And of the purest sheen: Spare neither cost nor labor; 'T is for my bridal queen." V. The work is done; and Helen Cried, "Lucky bride is she Who wears this blazing circlet! Ah! would he give to me One of his golden tresses, How happy I should be!" VI. "'T is well," the knight made answer; Then to the maid he cried, "I fain would have these jewels On thee, a moment, tried; That I may judge the surer If they become my bride." VII. And soon her blushing forehead Was with the garland graced; And then upon her finger The knight, in loving haste, The ring of gold and diamonds In merry triumph placed. VIII. "Ah! Helen, dearest Helen!" The happy lover cried; "For thee they were intended, My darling and my pride! And by these jeweled tokens I take thee for my bride!" |