The Azra

After Heine

Daily walked the fair and lovely
Sultan’s daughter in the twilight,—
In the twilight by the fountain,
Where the sparkling waters plash.

Daily stood the young slave silent
In the twilight by the fountain,
Where the plashing waters sparkle,
Pale and paler every day.

Once by twilight came the princess
Up to him with rapid questions:
“I would know thy name, thy nation,
Whence thou comest, who thou art.”

And the young slave said, “My name is
Mahomet, I come from Yemmen.
I am of the sons of Azra,
Men who perish if they love.”