From beneath a mysterious and ice-cold half-mask

From beneath a mysterious and ice-cold half-mask Your voice sounded to me as flattering as a dream, Your charming eyes were shining at me, And your cunning mouth was smiling.

Through the wispy haze I noticed unconsciously The paleness of your virgin cheeks and neck, Lucky creature! I saw a wilful curl Leaving the wave of its native locks!..

And I created then by these light signs A lovely beauty in my imagination; And from that time I carry in my soul, Caress and love this ethereal apparition.

And all seems thus to me: this lively conversation I have already heard in the former years, And someone whispers to me: after this encounter We will meet again as good old friends.

Из-под таинственной, холодной полумаски (Лермонтов)