XVII. Alcanzor and Zayda. A MOORISH TALE. IMITATED FROM THE SPANISH. The foregoing version was rendered as literal as the nature of the two languages would admit. In the following, a wider compass hath been taken. The Spanish poem that was chiefly had in view, is preserved in the same history of the civil wars of Granada, f. 22, and begins with these lines, "Por la calle de su dama Passeando se anda," &c. SOFTLY blow the evening breezes, In yon palace lives fair Zaida, Whom he loves with flame so pure : He a young and noble Moor. Waiting for the appointed minute, Stopping now, now moving forwards, Sometimes quick, and sometimes slow. Hope and fear alternate teize him, Oft he sighs with heart-felt care. 5 10 15 See, fond youth, to yonder window Lovely seems the moon's fair lustre When all silvery bright she rises, Gilding mountain, grove, and plain. 20 Lovely seems the sun's full glory When some horrid storm dispersing, O'er the wave his radiance flies. But a thousand times more lovely To her longing lover's sight, Steals half-seen the beauteous maiden Tip-toe stands the anxious lover, Whispering forth a gentle sigh: Alla* keep thee, lovely lady; Tell me, am I doom'd to die? Is it true the dreadful story, That seduc'd by sordid riches Thou wilt sell thy bloom to age? *Alla is the Mahometan name of God. 25 30 35 An old lord from Antiquera If 'tis true, now plainly tell me, 40 Deeply sigh'd the conscious maiden, 45 Our fond friendship is discover'd, All Well are known our mutual vows: my friends are full of fury ; Storms of passion shake the house. 50 Threats, reproaches, fears surround me; Well thou know'st how dear I lov'd thee Spite of all their hateful pride, Tho' I fear'd my haughty father Ne'er would let me be thy bride. Well thou know'st what cruel chidings 65 Soon, lov'd youth, some worthier maiden Shall reward thy generous truth; Sometimes tell her how thy Zaida Died for thee in prime of youth. -To him all amaz'd, confounded, Thus she did her woes impart : Deep he sigh'd, then cry'd, O Zaida! Do not, do not break my heart. Canst thou think I thus will lose thee? Canst thou hold my love so small? No! a thousand times I'll perish!My curst rival too shall fall. 85 90 Canst thou, wilt thou yield thus to them? This fond heart shall bleed to save thee, 95 These fond arms shall shelter thee. 'Tis in vain, in vain, Alcanzor, Spies surround me, bars secure : Scarce I steal this last dear moment, Hark, I hear my father storming! END OF THE THIRD BOOK. 100 |