XV.
“But, rather of my state than theirs to shew,
“And sin which brought me hither:—I was fair,
“But so much haughtier was than fair of hue,
“I know not if I ever equalled were:
“Nor which was most excessive of the two,
“My pride or beauty, could to thee declare.
“Though it is certain, Pride but took its rise
“In that rare loveliness which pleased all eyes.
XVI.
“There lived a Thracian knight, for warlike skill
“And prowess, upon earth without a peer;
“Who, voiced by many a worthy witness still,
“The praises of my matchless charms did hear.
“So that, of forethought and his own free will,
“Fixed all his love on me that cavalier;
“Weening this while that I, upon my part,
“Should for his valour duly prize his heart.
XVII.
“He came to Lydia, and by faster tie
“Was fettered at my sight; and there enrolled
“Amid my royal father’s chivalry,
“In mickle fame increased that baron bold.
“His feats of many a sort, and valour high
“Would make a tale too tedious to be told;
“With what his boundless merit had deserved,
“If a more grateful master he had served.
