THE EXCHANGE.

Portrait of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe 1749–1832
45The Poems

THE stones in the streamlet I make my bright pillow, And open my arms to the swift-rolling billow,

That lovingly hastens to fall on my breast. Then fickleness soon bids it onwards be flowing; A second draws nigh, its caresses bestowing,--

And so by a twofold enjoyment I'm blest.

And yet thou art trailing in sorrow and sadness The moments that life, as it flies, gave for gladness,

Because by thy love thou'rt remember'd no more! Oh, call back to mind former days and their blisses! The lips of the second will give as sweet kisses

As any the lips of the first gave before!

1767-9.

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