Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 2.pdf/287

Nor long I more thereof to learn.
When you describe how I might earn15320
Great wealth, thereto I can but say
I have enough, and fain the way
Would keep of gentle courtesy,
Which sweet and grateful is to me.
But devilish arts to magic due
Despise I, whether false or true.
Admit Fair-Welcome As to the youth on whom such high
Praises you deign to multiply,
And in whose manners, ways, and face,
The fairest virtues find a place,15330
God grant that still in him they thrive.
Nor him, nor any man alive
I envy, nor indeed hath he
Hold on my love to high degree,
For though the chaplet that he sent
I took, thereby no more I meant
Of love than men mean when we hear
Them say: “God save you,” or “Good cheer;”
Or e’en as neighbours passing by:
“God bless you, friend,” politely cry.15340
Honour I give to him above
Most men, but no exceeding love;
Yet since he sent this chaplet fair,
And I accepted it, I swear
Nought else had pleased me half as much.
And since that his desire is such
To see me, let him come e’en now
And great will be my joy, I vow,