And so as I walked musing I came to a water-gate that opened on to the Guadalquivir, and leaning upon the coping of a low wall I rested there idly to consider the beauty of the night.

In truth it was a lovely night, for across all these years I remember it.

Let those who have seen it say if they know any prospect more beautiful than the sight of the August moon shining on the broad waters of the Guadalquivir and the clustering habitations of the ancient city.
Now as I leaned upon the wall and looked, I saw a man pass up the steps beside me and go on into the shadow of the street.

I took no note of him till presently I heard a murmur of distant voices, and turning my head I discovered that the man was in conversation with a woman whom he had met at the head of the path that ran down to the water-gate.

Doubtless it was a lovers' meeting, and since such sights are of interest to all, and more especially to the young, I watched the pair.