Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 2.pdf/207

The Lover lightly setteth by
Your japes, and careth not one fly
If lies you speak or otherwise,
In no degree it moves or tries12900
His spirit, he but comes and goes,
Indifferent as the wind that blows,
Hither resorting now and then
By chance, the same as other men.

Evil-Tongue lectured But to speak frankly, great surprise
It is to me to note your eyes
Ever awatch beside the gate,
From early morn till night grows late,
Your lance in rest, as you’d defy
Each man who fared afoot hereby.12910
Unceasing vigil do you keep,
Neglecting rest and needful sleep,
Yet ne’er will Jealousy plenish you
What to your restless care is due;
But sad Fair-Welcome ’tis to see
Prisoned for no delinquency
Or crime: he in confinement wears
His life away ’mid sighs and tears.
Would God you in the world had done
Naught worse than this unhappy one!12920
’Twould be, an’t please you, naught but just,
If you from out your post were thrust,
And thrown in prison bound with chains,
For well will you deserve hell’s pains
If you repent not ere you die.