Secret invitation

Up, raise the sparkling cup to your lips,

And drink your heart's fill at the joyous feast.

And when you raise it, so wink secretly at me,

Then I'll smile and drink quietly, as you...

And quietly as I, look around at the crowd

Of drunken revelers -- don't think too ill of them.

No, lift the twinkling cup, filled with wine,

And let them be happy at the noisy meal.

But when you've savored the meal, your thirst quenched,

Then quit the loud gathering's joyful fest,

And wander out into the garden, to the rosebush,

There shall I await you, as often of old.

And ere you know it shall I sink upon your breast,

And drink your kisses, as so often before,

And twine the rose's splendour into your hair.

Oh, come, you wondrous, longed-for night!