The princess, glancing at the lotus on the outside of the note,
slowly unfolded it and perused its contents, which were as follows:

1.

She was to me the pearl that clings
To sands all hid from mortal
sight,
Yet fit for diadems of kings,
The pure and lovely light.

2.

She was to me the gleam of sun
That breaks the gloom of wintry
day;
One moment shone my soul upon,
Then passed --how soon! - away.

3.

She was to me the dreams of bliss
That float the dying eyes before,
For one short hour shed happiness,
And fly to bless no more.

4.

O light, again upon me shine;