Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 1.pdf/198

But folly ’tis to mate oneself
With one whose only thought is pelf 4860
Of gifts between lovers And pillage. But I nowise say
It shames ii woman to display
On neck or arm a jewel fair,
If some true knight hath set it there
In gift; but ne’er should dame demand
An offering at her lover’s hand;
That savoureth much of sale, but she
May, saving still her modesty,
Exchange a token with her knight;
By such sweet take and give, more bright4870
The flame of love doth burn.
’Tis well
That lovers meet full oft, and tell
The thoughts that brim their hearts, and lace
Their arms in gentle, fond embrace.

But keep good heed against the wiles
Of love unholy, which defiles
Its votary; ne’er cease to be
On guard against venality,
Which heart untrue doth oft invade,
O’er true love casting deadly shade.4880
But perfect love is born of heart
Where gold hath neither lot nor part;
Nor should man let that love inmesh
His soul, whose trammels wake the flesh.
The burning love which overcame
Thy heart was carnal, purer flame
Burnt not within thee; thou the Rose
Thereof didst wish to pluck, God knows!