University of Virginia Library

The gourd has [still] its bitter leaves ,
And the crossing at the ford is deep .
If deep , I will go through with my clothes on ;
If shallow , I will do so , holding them up .

The ford is full to overflowing ;
There is the note of the female pheasant .
The full ford will not wet the axle of my carriage ;
It is the pheasant calling for her mate .

The wild goose , with its harmonious notes ,
At sunrise , with the earliest dawn ,
By the gentleman , who wishes to bring home his bride ,
[Is presented] before the ice is melted .

The boatman keeps beckoning ;
And others cross with him , but I do not .
Others cross with him, but I do not ; —
I am waiting for my friend .