Conversation in the wood

It is already late, it is already cold;

why do you ride alone through the wood?

The wood is vast and you are alone,

you fair bride! I will lead you home.

"Great are the deceit and cunning of men;

my heart has broken for pain.

The forest horn strays here and there,

o flee! You do not know who I am."

So richly decked are mount and lady,

so wondrously fair the young form;

now I recognize you - God stand by me!

You are the Witch Loreley.

"You recognize me well - from the lofty cliffs

my castle gazes down into the Rhine.

It is already late, it is already cold -

you shall never again leave this wood."