Page:Life and death of fair Rosamond (4).pdf/5

5 Why grieves my Rose? my sweetest Rose

the king did often say

Because said she to bloody wars

my lord must pass away.

But since your grace in foreign parts

amongst your foes unkind

Must go to hazard life and lamb

why must I stay behind?

Nay rather let me like a page

thy sword and target bear

That on my breast the blow may light

that should offend my dear

O let me in your royal tent

prepare your bed at night

And with sweet baths refresh you there

as you return from fight

So I your presence will enjoy

no toil I will refuse:

But wanting you my life is death

which doth true love abuse

Content thyself my dearest love

thy at home shall be

In England's sweet and pleasing court

for travels fit not thee.

Fair ladies brook not bloody wars

sweet peace their pleasure breed

The nourisher of hearts content

whose fancy first did feed.