Classic Poem

As the moon the dark cloud curtains,
Parts, and goes her radiant way,
Rises from dark times behind me,
Memory of one brilliant day.

We exulted while we floated
Down the Rhine, in light serene,
As the sun-rays of the evening
Brightened all that summer sheen.

I myself was seated musing
At a peerless lady's feet,
And the ruddy gold of sunset
Tinged her features pale and sweet.

Lutes were tinkling, students singing;
Merriment beyond compare!
And the very sky grew bluer,
And the soul expanded there.

Hill and castle, field and forest,
Like a fairy-tale passed by,
And I saw it all refulgent
In that peerless woman's eye.