English poem
The Ring
by Louis Vintras (1864–1934)
But a tiny ring of gold, Just a link; Wear it and your heart is sold, Strange to think.
’Till it glitters on your hand You are free.... Shall I cast it on the sand, In the sea?
Which was Judas’ greater sin, Kiss or gold? Love must end where sales begin, I am told.
We will have no ring, no kiss To deceive-- When you hear the serpent hiss, Think of Eve.