The Works of J. W. von Goethe/Volume 9/The Friendly Meeting
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THE FRIENDLY MEETING.
In spreading mantle to my chin concealed,
I trod the rocky path so steep and gray,
Then to the wintry plain I bent my way
Uneasily, to flight my bosom steeled.
But sudden was the new-born day revealed.
A maiden came, in heavenly bright array,
Like the fair creatures of the poet's lay
In realms of song. My yearning heart was healed!
Yet turned I thence, till she had onward passed,
While closer still the folds to draw I tried,
As though with heat self-kindled to grow warm;
But followed her. She stood. The die was cast!
No more within my mantle could I hide;
I threw it off,—she lay within mine arm.