The shepherd on the bridge

The forest brook roars through the valley,

Almost hidden from the sunlight,

Impeded by mighty stones;

High above, trembling, is the bridge.

On the bridge stands a shepherd,

Singing a joyful mountain song.

Suddenly out of the wood comes

The tender pealing of the evening bell.

And when he hears the bell

He kneels down to pray,

looking happily up to heaven,

to the one in whom he trusts.

O what a holy, solemn and tender scene:

The forest below in all its wildness,

And above the man in prayer

Illumined by the twilight's red glow.

Yes: his is a heart devoted to God,

Exalted over the sorrow and pain

Of the life down below,

And with confidence and trust he gazes heavenward.