LVI
The Lover findeth Dame Richesse,
Who guards the path with carefulness
By which the fortress may be ta’en
Of those who scatter golden rain.
The Lover finds Richesse
Hard by a fountain fresh and clear
(While musing on my Rosebud dear)10510
I found a sweet sequestered spot
Where sat a dame, whom all would wot
Of lovely form and joyous face,
Beneath a leafy elm her place.
A gallant stood beside the dame,
(Of whom I wist nor rank nor name)
But her I knew for Dame Richesse,
By all men held of great noblesse,
And o’er a pleasant pathway guard
She kept, and all intrusion barred.10520
Soon as I saw them I inclined
My head, and well was pleased to find
Return thereof, but that was all
My welcoming. In accent small
And soft I gently asked if they
Could to Much-Giving point the way;
And Richesse, speaking first, replied.
In tones that savoured scorn and pride:
Richesse.
Behold the path, I hold the way.
