Where, from islands in the river,
Ospreys clang, there dwells apart,
Sweet and fair, a modest maiden
Meet to win our Prince's heart.

Where the water-lilies waver
In the stream—from dark to dawn,
To the dear maid, to win her favor
Sweet and fair, his thoughts are drawn:

For he sought her, sought her vainly;
But day and night his fancies go
To find her, and the night is sleepless,
Full of tossings to and fro.

Pluck the water-lilies gladly!
Sweet and fair, she comes at last!
Lute and harp lend all your music!
Sweet and fair, let lilies cast

Sacrificial to her welcome
Usher in the bride to be!
Join, ye people, all your voices
With the merry minstrelsie!