A river, and expire in ocean!
Each fountain’s tribute hurries thee
To that vast grave with quicker motion.
Far better ’twere to linger still
In this green vale these flowers to cherish,
And die in peace, an aged rill,
Than thus, a youthful Danube, perish.
Translation of W. C. Bryant. Pedro de Castro, 17th Century.
THE STREAM OF THE ROCK.
FROM THE GERMAN.