The house of Kelidon was open And shone with light and glee: A thousand guests had gathered there To celebrate and see.
It was the wedding of Stemènos Kelidon's firstborn son, Who laughing with a cup in hand Among the friends strode on.
The bride was sitting 'mong her maids In flee from people's sight A vision was tormenting her She'd dreamt the foregoing night. "My friends" moaned she "I fear a dream Which came to me last night."
Meanwhile the bridegroom saw one man Who seemed to wait for him All clothed in ragged beggar gown With features pale and dim.
"O stranger guest, o stranger guest, Although I know not thee I recognize thy large-brimmed hat I know you've come for me.
O stranger guest, o stranger guest Whose eyes cast ember's light I recognize thy skinny face: I'll leave this very night. I know you not, yet this I say: I'll come this very night."
The silent stranger bade him go, The young man stepped outside And whispered through the meek night air "Farewell, o dear, dear bride?"