Hoarfrost was hanging

Hoarfrost was hanging in the linden tree boughs,

through which the light streamed like silver.

I saw your house, as brightly as in a dream,

a sparkling fairy castle.

And your window stood open --

I could even see you in your room;

then you stepped into the sunshine

you darkest of fairies!

I shivered with blissful pleasure,

so spring-warm and wonderful:

but then I realized from your greeting,

that it was actually frosty winter.