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Ring Superstitions: Glory

There comes a Smith from the Forge, Glory!

The Smith carries three hammers, Glory !

Smith, Smith, forge me a crown, Glory!

Forge me a crown both golden and new, Glory!

Forge from the remnants a golden ring, Glory!

And from the chips a pin, Glory!

In that crown will I be wedded, Glory !

With that ring will I be betrothed, Glory!

With that pin will I fasten the nuptial kerchief, Glory! When a lover leaves his mistress for a time, he gives her a golden ring (pérsten', a signet-ring, or one set with gemsfrom perst, a finger) and receives from her a gold ring in exchange (Kol' tsë, a plain circlet like our own weddingring, from Kolo, a circle). It is not a falcon flying across the sky, It is not a falcon scattering blue feathers, But a brave youth galloping along the road, Forth from his bright eyes pouring bitter tears.

He has parted from his own, The Lower River track, through which, In all her beauty, Mother Volga flows.

He has parted from the maiden fair, And with her as a token left A costly diamond ring; And from her has he taken in exchange A plighting ring of gold.

And while exchanging gifts thus has he spoken : 'Forget me not, my dear one, Forget me not, my loved companion.

Often, often gaze upon my ring; Often, often will I kiss thy circlet, Pressing it to my beating heart, Remembering thee, my own.

If ever I think of another love, The golden circlet will unclasp; Shouldst thou to another suitor yield, From the ring the diamond will fall.'