Would that my spirit witness bore me
That, like this woman, I had done
The work my Master put before me,
Duly from morn till set of sun.
Would that life's cup had been by me
Quaff'd in such wise and happy measure,
And that I too might finally
Look on my shroud with such meek pleasure.
THE WONDERFUL HISTORY OF PETER SCHLEMIHL (1814)
By ADALBERT VON CHAMISSO TRANSLATED BY FREDERIC H. HEDGE
CHAPTER I
After a fortunate, but for me very troublesome voyage, we finally
reached the port. The instant that I touched land in the boat, I
loaded myself with my few effects, and passing through the swarming
people, I entered the first, and most modest house, before which I saw
a sign hang. I requested a room; the boots measured me with a look,
and conducted me into the garret. I caused fresh water to be brought,
and made him exactly describe to me where I should find Mr. Thomas
John. He replied to my inquiry--"Before the north gate; the first
country-house on the right hand; a large new house of red and white
marble, with many columns."
"Good!" It was still early in the day. I opened at once my bundle;
took thence my new black cloth coat; clad myself cleanly in my best
apparel; put my letter of introduction into my pocket, and
immediately set out on the way to the man who was to promote my modest
expectations.
When I had ascended the long North Street, and reached the gate, I
soon saw the pillars glimmer through the foliage.
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