"At the foot of a bleak and inhospitable mountain
An insignificant stream winds its uncared way;
Although inferior to the Yangtze-kiang in every detail
Yet fish glide to and fro among its crannies
Nor would they change their home for the depths of the widest
river.

The palace of the sublime Emperor is made rich with hanging
curtains.
While here rough stone walls forbid repose.
Yet there is one who unhesitatingly prefers the latter;
For from an open shutter here he can look forth,
And perchance catch a glimpse of one who may pass by.

The occupation of the Imperial viceroy is both lucrative and
noble;
While that of a relater of imagined tales is by no means
esteemed.
But he who thus expressed himself would not exchange with the
other;
For around the identity of each heroine he can entwine the
personality of one whom he has encountered.
And thus she is ever by his side."

"Your uplifted voice comes from an unexpected quarter, minstrel," said
a melodious voice, and the maiden whom he had encountered in the wood
stood before him. "What crime have you now committed?"

"An ancient one. I presumed to raise my unworthy eyes--"