THEY KNEW the way and went to seek you along the narrow lane, but I wandered abroad into the night for I was ignorant. I was not schooled enough to be afraid of you in the dark, therefore I came upon your doorstep unaware. The wise rebuked me and bade me be gone, for I had not come by the lane. I turned away in doubt, but you held me fast, and their scolding became louder every day.
LAY DOWN your lute, my love, leave your arms free to embrace me. Let your touch bring my overflowing heart to my body's utmost brink. Do not bend your neck and turn away your face, but offer up a kiss to me, which has been like some perfume long closed in a bud. Do not smother this moment under vain words, but let our hearts quake in a rush of silence sweeping all thoughts to the shoreless delight.