Because of a vague fancy, idle fear

Chased on reflection!—pausing, taps discreet;

And then, to give herself a countenance,

Before she comes upon the pair inside,

Loud—the oft-quoted, long-laughed-over line—

"'Hail, calm acclivity, salubrious spot!'

Open the door!"

No: let the curtain fall!


PACCHIAROTTO