1. They bowed their slender necks, and faces
Radiant and joyful shone upon them.

2. They unveiled charms from faultless cheeks,
Whence grace itself had modelled beauty.

3. Light scarfs on them, and rich necklaces
Adorned with purest pearls from ocean's bed:

4. With tinkling anklets sound, and rings of gold
Fixed in the holes pierced through their ears.

5. Branches of lofty trees waved o'er them, cool,
As the soft fingers of the night spread wide

6. The black robes on the bosom of the gloom.
New passion thrilled me for my native land,

7. The maids I loved in childhood's early time:
They say, "No tears are left within thine eyes;"

8. I answer, "Had ye known my grief, how deep!"
Shall I make free with tears, and utter plaint

9. With heart festering, and expose my shame?
If now mine eyes grudge tears, then I were base.