The generous accents of his tongue,
Proclaim him vigorous, blithe and young;
Whereof thank God!
On any dame
Or guardian, should I cry out shame,
Who, when such lover prayed a kiss,
With churlish heart denied that bliss!
List then my counsel, and bestow
The boon that he desireth so.3610
From archèd lips, his breath as sweet
Exhales as southern winds that beat
On fresh-blown violet-beds. He seems
One of those happy youths whose dreams
Are but of soft and sweet desires.
His lips are red as ruby fires,
And close on teeth as pure and white
As fleur-de-lis in springtide bright;
And, to my deeming, nought amiss
It were to grant him one sweet kiss.3620
So let it be, nor longer stay,
’Twere time but lost to make delay.”
XXIX
Queen Venus’ ardent torch doth fire
The Lover’s bosom with desire
So fervid, that he dares the Rose
To kiss, in faith 'twill heal his woes3100
Fair-welcome, when he felt the flame
Of Venus’ brand, forthwith became
Willing to grant my prayer, and nought
He hindered more the boon I sought.3630
