In my dreams I saw my beloved

In my dreams I saw my beloved,

a timid, troubled woman,

withered and worn down,

who once was such a blossoming person.

A child she supported in her arm,

another she led by the hand,

their poverty and misery evident

in their gait, their look, and their garb.

She staggered across the marketplace,

encounters me there,

and gazes at me; and calmly

and sorrowfully I say to her:

Come with me to my house,

for you are pale and ill.

I will, through diligence and work,

provide you with food and drink.

I will also maintain and cultivate

these children that are with you,

but above all else, you,

you poor, unlucky child.

I will never tell you

that I once loved you

and when you die,

I will weep over your grave.