This Night bewitched me, and the friendly throng
Was sharper, clearer, with its merry jest.
Like one inspired, I rippled into song,
Feeling love’s loveliness was love’s behest.
All hearts responded;—still the echoes ring
In jolly welcome to my joyous song;
Oh, human harp! If love but touch the string,
Adieu to discord, dissonance and wrong!
Nay, one was mute—one only; but his eyes,
Brimmed to the lashes with sweet, wistful tears—