Livro Herman and Dorothea, Translated Into English Hexameters; With an Introductory Essay

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Soon as the handsome youth stept into the room, the good Pastor Kxt his keen eye upon him, observing his form and demeanour; (His was the eye of a judge, the countenance easily reading.) Smiling then spake he to him, in words that were kind and familiar: ?

Surely you come back a chang'd man! Never before have I seen you Sprightly as this and excited, with looks so joyous and happy. 1'ou have divided your gifts, and received from the needy a blessing.

Whereupon Herman made answer; quiet and earnest his words were: ? Whether I 've done what is right, I know not; my heart was the prompter. All that has happen'd I'll tell of.

Mother, long were you searching, Long were you choosing the garments, so that 'twas late ere the bundle Fully prepar'd was: long, too, the beer and the wine took in packing.

When I at length had got out of the gate, and arrived at the highway, Then did I meet our townsfolk returning, with wives and with children. Far away was the procession: I quicken'd my pace to the village Where, T was told, they intended this night for refreshment to tarry.

When to the new road I came, a wagon I saw of stout timber, Drawn by two oxen of outlandish breed, of the finest and strongest. But at their side was walking with vigorous footsteps, a maiden, Who, with a staff in her hand, was guiding the powerful creatures, Urging them on, or restraining; skilful was she as a driver!

But when the Maiden espied me, she quietly drew near my horses, And thus addrest me: ' Not always so laden with sorrow have we heen, As on this day on the highway you see us.

Nor have I thus been Wont of the stranger to ask for a favour he often refuses, Often unwillingly gives, and gives to get rid of the asker. Yet does necessity urge me to speak, for unhappily...