From the tower calls the watchman,

And the pennon gaily flutters,

And from yonder cliff is ringing

Wondrously the Lurley's song.

But, alas! the good time passes;

Nought but grief is then my portion;

I devote myself to drinking,

Pray at Cöln in the Cathedral,

And become a beast of burden.

Shabby tradesmen must I serve then,