Page:A history of Bohemian literature.pdf/43

26 They tell of the parting of two lovers, caused by the approach of dawn, and of the fears which they express with regard to the "false gossips," rivals, or inquisitive people who may be watching them. A translation of the best of these songs may be of interest.

"Dear clear day, how have you surprised me, You that have awakened the false gossip; The day rises there Where two lovers live together. Almighty Lord God, Deign Thou to guard these two.

From the east a breeze arises, Trembling over hill and vale; The moaning of the woods, their noise and crashing ceases; The game flees, the birds scream; Everything tells us, everything shows That the night has vanished.

Above us the morning star has disappeared, For into the distance it has vanished, Hastily retiring behind the hills. It aoes not stop, It wishes to rise higher. It is time for us, my beloved, to take leave.

The heart of my beloved was aggrieved When, rising, she perceived the daybreak; Then spake my beloved: 'Why have we two slept so long? Hasten, my beloved, Lest disgrace may overtake us.'

Clear daylight is here, I know; The sky appears light blue, The splendour of the sun is rising, Therefore my heart is in fear. Almighty Lord God, Deign Thou to guard us two.