"Speak then, why I now behold it;

Whence yon banner's milk-white hue?"

"Ask no further, they unfold it

To the bride an honour due."

"Say, my page, what means that writing

Graven on yon marble-stone?"

"'Tis the youth and maiden plighting

Love to one, and one alone."

"How, my page, that name the dearest?

See, and true its meaning tell."