"You saw me in Delft, but you did not know me thoroughly.

These eyes were like two mirrors of fortune in which every object was charmingly transfigured, and they were rewarded; for wherever they looked they met only friendly glances.

This heart then embraced the whole world, and beat so quickly and joyously! I often did not know what to do with myself from sheer mirth and vivacity, and it seemed as if I must burst into a thousand pieces like an over-loaded firelock, only instead of scattering far and wide, mount straight up to Heaven.

Those days were so happy, and yet so sad--I felt it ten times as much in Delft, when you were kind to me.

And now, now?
I still have wings, I still might fly, but here I creep like a snail--because it is your will." "It is not my wish," replied Maria.