When they left Geisenheim, the press boat was literary loaded down with hampers of delicious wine.
That same evening they reached Bingen.

Here the Captain was warned to beware of Bingen Loch and the Lurlei.

He took but little stock in the stories about their dangers and secretly determined to dash right into the legendary whirlpool.

That whirlpool which has been the theme of Heine's song, has also been the dread of Rhine boatmen from time immemorial.

Legend says it is presided over by a fairy maid who lures hapless fishermen to the spot by her syren voice and rejoices in their destruction.