Welsh Journals

In heavy melancholy, what greater entertainment Than hearing [ ] The music of the harp in the company of the family? In the past it drove away anger To keep it pure and respected. 85 King David often put his hand to the strings. From its virtue Comes praise of God, a true divine aspect Give this man a harp, we shall embellish your praise, May it come easily; 90 Its beautiful soundboard, workmanship and back, And its song every man covets it, A pure region between the hands, With its faultless post, may it come from your hand, And the strings like taut wires, 95 Beautifully formed, fill it to capacity; If its shape did not conform And its size likewise They will agree unanimously [about] The clear bells of its fine tone; 100 Twenty and ten pegs of fair aspect hoed it, Purposeful curved pegs Giving voice to every intense emotion. May this one gift, this splendid present, May the fine harp come to one man, 105 And your honour and praise Will remain while strings are plucked. Translated by Glenda Carr