by Anonymous

THE origin of the following legend is itself somewhat of a legend. The author of this little story, or, as it may more correctly be termed, this sweet poem, was a young maiden. You will easily discover this, for, in truth, so simple and natural a tale could only have emanated from the fresh and pure imagination of a youthful mind. I tried in vain to discover the name of the author when I was visiting Germany, her native country. I was told by some that the story was written by a princess, who closed her short but brilliant career some years ago, after giving utterance to this plaintive song. Others denied this fact, and assured me that the author was a peasant girl, who died in poverty and obscurity.