"Gracious Allah! by such title Do I dare to thank the God, Him who thus exalts thy spirit, Flower of an unchristian sod! 70 Or hast thou put off wings which thou in heaven dost wear? What have I seen, and heard or dreamt? where am I? where?" XIII Here broke off the dangerous converse: Less impassioned words might tell How the pair escaped together, 75 Tears not wanting, nor a knell Of sorrow in her heart while through her father's door, And from her narrow world, she passed for evermore. XIV But affections higher, holier, Urged her steps; she shrunk from trust 80 In a sensual creed that trampled Woman's birthright into dust. Little be the wonder then, the blame be none, If she, a timid Maid, hath put such boldness on. XV Judge both Fugitives with knowledge: 85 In those old romantic days Mighty were the soul's commandments To support, restrain, or raise. Foes might hang upon their path, snakes rustle near, But nothing from their inward selves had they to fear. 90 XVI Thought infirm ne'er came between them, Whether printing desert sands With accordant steps, or gathering Forest-fruit with social hands; 94 Or whispering like two reeds that in the cold moonbeam Bend with the breeze their heads, beside a crystal stream. XVII On a friendly deck reposing They at length for Venice steer; There, when they had closed their voyage, One, who daily on the pier 100 Watched for tidings from the East, beheld his Lord, Fell down and clasped his knees for joy, not uttering word. XVIII Mutual was the sudden transport; Breathless questions followed fast, Years contracting to a moment, 105 Each word greedier than the last; "Hie thee to the Countess, friend! return with speed, And of this Stranger speak by whom her lord was freed. XIX Say that I, who might have languished, Drooped and pined till life was spent, 110 Now before the gates of Stolberg[648] My Deliverer would present For a crowning recompense, the precious grace Of her who in my heart still holds her ancient place. XX