Page:An Anthology of Modern Bohemian Poetry.pdf/79

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MODERN BOHEMIAN POETRY
75

That these buds by springtime borne
A bridal robe would fain adorn.

That this ivy forms a crown,
Upon thy head to thy renown.

That bedecked with charms untold,
Thee for evermore I hold.

Adolf Heyduk (b. 1835).

FROM "NEW GYPSY MELODIES"
(1897)

Hostess, a cup of wine, I pray,
From Debreczin I took my way;
By distant foot-paths I did fare,—
Lo, these fetters that I bear!

Our masters gave to me these bands,
They fettered last my feet and hands;
That, when gleamed the star of morn,
I to the gallows might be borne.

Weakly were the fetters wrought,
By my strength asunder brought;
Why should such fetters be my plight,
For scanty bread and scanty right?