Speak, my heart

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!