Now you are mine, to-night at last I say it; You're a dove I have bought for sacrifice, And to-night I slay it. Here in my arms my naked sacrifice! Death, do you hear, in my arms I am bringing My offering, bought at great price. She's a silvery dove worth more than all I've got. Now I offer her up to the ancient, inexorable God, Who knows me not. Look, she's a wonderful dove, without blemish or spot! I sacrifice all in her, my last of the world, Pride, strength, all the lot. All, all on the altar! And death swooping down Like a falcon. 'Tis God has taken the victim; I have won my renown.
|