The Origin Of The Harp - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
THE ORIGIN OF THE HARP. 
'Tis believed that this harp, which I wake now for thee, Was a siren of old, who sung under the sea, And who often at eve through the bright waters roved, To meet on the green shore a youth whom she loved. 
But she loved him in vain, for he left her to weep, And in tears all the night her gold tresses to steep; Till heaven looked with pity on true love so warm, And changed to this harp the sea-maiden's form. 
Still her bosom rose fair, still her cheeks smiled the same, While her sea-beauties gracefully formed the light frame; And her hair, as let loose o'er her white arm it fell, Was changed to bright chords uttering melody's spell. -
Hence it came that this soft harp so long hath been known To mingle love's language with sorrow's sad tone; 'Till thou didst divide them and teach the fond lay, To speak love when I'm near thee, and grief when away.