And when the tempest from its base The rooted pine would shake, The powerless storm unruffling swept Across the calm dead lake. And ever then when death drew near The house of Arlinkow, Its dark unfathom'd waters sent The Lord of Arlinkow was old, One only child had he, DONICA was the Maiden's name, A bloom as bright as opening morn Flush'd o'er her clear white cheek; The music of her voice was mild, Her full dark eyes were meek. Far was her beauty known, for none So fair could Finland boast; Her parents loved the Maiden much, Young EBERHARD loved her most. Together did they hope to tread For now the day drew near to make The eve was fair and mild the air, The tints of fading day. And brightly o'er the water stream'd The liquid radiance wide; Donica's little dog ran on Youth, health, and love bloom'd on her cheek, Her full dark eyes express In many a glance to Eberhard Her soul's meek tenderness. Nor sound was heard, nor passing gale Dimpled the water's edge. Sudden the unfathom'd lake sent forth Its music from beneath, And slowly o'er the waters sail'd The solemn sounds of death. As those deep sounds of death arose, And in the arms of Eberhard The lifeless Maiden fell. Loudly the Youth in terror shriek'd, And with a wild and eager look But soon again did better thoughts In Eberhard arise, And he with trembling hope beheld And on his arm reclined she moved With feeble pace and slow, And soon with strength recover'd reach'd The towers of Arlinkow. Yet never to Donica's cheek Return'd the lively hue; Her cheeks were deathy white and wan, Her eyes so bright and black of yore The dog that gamboll'd by her side, Now at his alter'd mistress howl'd, Yet did the faithful Eberhard Not love the Maid the less; He gazed with sorrow, but he gazed With deeper tenderness. And when he found her health unharm'd He would not brook delay, But press'd the not unwilling Maid To fix the bridal day. |