False-Seeming concludes
From one whose dress is spoiled by flaws.
But God esteemeth not two straws
The word of one who saith that he
Hath left the world, yet luxury
Doth wallow in. The hypocrite
Who cries that he the world hath quit,12620
And yet indulgeth all he can
The flesh, like any world-wise man.
Nor aught of pleasure doth refuse;
Should we his cant and lies excuse?
Resembleth he the dog who fain
Unto his vomit turns again.
But unto you I dare not lie;
Though had I not unerringly
Perceived that you saw clearly through
My falsity, I straight should you12630
Have plied with cozenage, for I ne’er,
Seeing a chance, a victim spare.
I know my role, and this I tell,
A traitor am I, guard you well.
The Author.
The God bestowed on this strange tale
A smile, nor did the barons fail
To laugh, and cried: A subtle youth,
And one in whom to trust, forsooth!
The God of Love.
False-Seeming, then said Love, I pray,
Since thou so great apart shalt play12640
Within my court, for there shalt thou
Be king of ribalds, tell me now,
Wilt thou to me be loyal and true?
