Xxi

Ah, what booteth sweet illusion, Fluttering glance, and soft suffusion, Bliss unknown, but felt in sighs, Breast, that shrinks at its own rise?

She, who is the Nile's devoted, Courted with a watery smile; Her betrothal duly noted By the bridesmaid Crocodile!

So she bowed her forehead lowly, Tightened her tiara holy; And, with every sigh suppressed, Clasped her hands on passion's breast.