Romance of the Rose (Ellis)/Chapter 25
XXV
The Friend's soft, gentle words allay
The Lover’s fears, and smooth his way.
But said, “Dear comrade, cast aside
Your fears, be nowise terrified;
This Danger, since longtime I know
For one who spareth not to throw
Curses, and menaces, and threats
Against each generous youth who sets
His foot anear the Rose. Although
At first he maketh wondrous show
Of wrath, ’tis nought, I know him well
As know I A B C to spell.
Danger may be appeased
This Cerberus fierce may be appeased
With little pains; he’s lightly pleased
With soft caress and humble prayer:
Learn then the way that you should bear
Yourself towards him: first begin
By asking pardon for your sin,
Of his sweet love and gentleness.
And then with solemn oath express,
Right hand uplift, your purpose fixed,
That you will never more be mixed
In plot against him; nought allays
His wrath so soon as flattering praise.”
The Lover.
My friend so confidently spake,
As straightway in my soul to wake
New courage, and desire to try
Danger’s rude soul to pacify.