Sweet Maiden, bright Maiden
Passing on your way
May I linger with you?
Maiden, say!
"I have much to see
And far, far to go
Let it be another day
Now it is No! "
One word of welcome
Ere you depart!
I will be patient still;
Silence, my heart!

Sweet Maiden, shy Maiden
Passing far away
May I wander with you?
Maiden, say!
"You are nought to me
And I nought to you!
What am I to answer now?
What can I do?"
Wander alone then
I will depart; --
Yet she smiles upon me
Courage, my heart!
True Maiden, dear Maiden
Passing my door
I will say a new word
Whispered before
"You may whisper softly
Soft and still
Yes, I will hear you out
Say whate'er you will!"
Hear me and heed me
Ere you depart;
Yes, her lips are smiling;--
Speak, my heart!