Who rides so late through the windy night? It is the father and his child.

He holds the boy, Warm

and safe. Son, why do you hide your face in fear? Father, do you not see the Elfking? With his
crown and train? Son, it's just the mist. Come with me, lovely child We'll play games There are
flowers on the beach and My mother has golden clothes Father, can't you hear What the Elfking is
promising me? Be calm, my boy -- It's only the wind in the leaves. Lovely boy, will you come with
me? My daughters will wait on you My daughters will sing and dance for you and rock you to
sleep. Father, do you not see The Elfking's daughters there? Son, it's the old willows shining In the
moonlight. I love you -- I'm aroused by your beautiful form And if you won't come, I will take you
by force Father, father, he has grabbed me. The Elfking has hurt me. The father shudders. He rides
fast, the groaning boy in his arms, Anxious, he reaches the farm. In his arms, the boy is dead.