Page:The Works of J. W. von Goethe, Volume 9.djvu/43

Rh ANSWERS IN A GAME OF QUESTIONS.

the small and great world too, What most charms a woman's heart? It is doubtless what is new, For its blossoms joy impart; Nobler far is what is true, For fresh blossoms it can shoot Even in the time of fruit.

With the nymphs in wood and cave Paris was acquainted well, Till Zeus sent, to make him rave, Three of those in Heaven who dwell; And the choice more trouble gave Than e'er fell to mortal lot, Whether in old times or not.

Tenderly a woman view, And thou'lt win her, take my word He who's quick and saucy too, Will of all men be preferred; Who ne'er seems as if he knew If he pleases, if he charms,— He 'tis injures, he 'tis harms.

Manifold is human strife, Human passion, human pain: Many a blessing yet is rife, Many pleasures still remain.