The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/To the Chosen One
TO THE CHOSEN ONE.
[This sweet song is doubtless one of those addressed to Frederica.]
Hand in hand, and lip to lip!
Oh, be faithful, maiden dear!
Fare thee well! thy lover's ship
Past full many a rock must steer;
But should he the haven see,
When the storm has ceased to break,
And be happy, reft of thee,—
May the gods fierce vengeance take!
Boldly dared is well-nigh won!
Half my task is solved aright;
Every star's to me a sun,
Only cowards deem it night.
Stood I idly by thy side,
Sorrow still would sadden me;
But when seas our path divide,
Gladly toil I,—toil for thee!
Now the valley I perceive,
Where together we will go,
And the streamlet watch each eve,
Gliding peacefully below.
Oh, the poplars on yon spot!
Oh, the beech-trees in yon grove!
And behind we'll build a cot.
Where to taste the joys of love!