How many meanings may a single sigh

[ZaunköniG]

How many meanings may a single sigh
Heave from the bosom; early, yet too late,
I learn'd with sighs to audit mine estate,
While yet I deem'd my hope was only shy

And wishing to be woo'd. Fain to descry
The little cloud I thought could never vex
My vernal season, I would still perplex
With sighs the counsel of my destiny.

Still it moved on, and ever larger grew,
And still I sigh'd and sigh'd - and then I panted;
For now the cloud is huge, and close to view.

It burst; the thunder roar'd, the sharp rain slanted, -
The tempest pass'd, and I was almost fain
To sigh forlorn, and hear the sigh again.