'I come, clad as a warrior proud--

What wouldst thou? 'neath my mailed shroud

No fleshless bones appear.'

Extinguish not--oh yet--dear Death!

Love's fire--that burns so bright!

'Oh! I can hold in close embrace,

And though my mouth no warm lips grace,

Behold--my teeth are white!'

Wouldst tear me from my golden hoard

With merciless commands?