Page:The Works of J. W. von Goethe, Volume 9.djvu/115

Rh TABLE SONG.

me,—how I cannot say,— Heavenly rapture's growing. Will it help to guide my way To yon stars all-glowing? Yet that here I'd sooner be, To assert I'm able, Where, with wine and harmony, I may thump the table.

Wonder not, my dearest friends, What 'tis gives me pleasure; For of all that earth e'er lends, 'Tis the sweetest treasure. Therefore solemnly I swear, With no reservation, That maliciously I'll ne'er Leave my present station.

Now that here we're gathered round, Chasing cares and slumbers, Let, methought, the goblet sound To the bard's glad numbers! Many a hundred mile away, Go those we love dearly; Therefore let us here to-day Make the glass ring clearly!

Here's His health through whom we live! I that faith inherit.