Page:Norse mythology or, the religion of our forefathers, containing all the myths of the Eddas, systematized and interpreted with an introduction, vocabulary and index.djvu/155

96. That I experienced
    When in the reeds I sat
    Awaiting my delight.
    Body and soul to me
    Was that discreet maiden;
    Nevertheless I possess her not.

97. Billing's lass
    On her couch I found,
    Sun-bright, sleeping.
    A prince's joy
    To me seemed naught,
    If not with that form to live.

98. Yet nearer eve
    Must thou, Odin, come, she said,
    If thou wilt talk the maiden over;
    All will be disastrous
    Unless we alone
    Are privy to such misdeed.

99. I returned,
    Thinking to love
    At her wise desire;
    I thought
    I should obtain
    Her whole heart and love.

100. When next I came,
      The bold warriors were
      All awake,
      With lights burning,
      And bearing torches:

101. But at the approach of morn,
      When again I came,
      The household all was sleeping;
      The good damsel's dog
      Alone I found
      Tied to the bed.