Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 1.pdf/150

116 Then forthwith soft-voiced Franchise sped

Towards where Fair-Welcome stood, and said

With gentlest words, and sweetest tone:

“O wherefore leave you all alone

The Lover, for so long a while,

Without so much as one poor smile?

Sombre is he, and pale of hue,

Cast out from sight or speech of you.

If you esteem in some degree

My love, I charge you earnestly

Return to him, make no delay,

But speak and do whatso you may

To cheer his heart. With Danger, I

And Pity wrought so earnestly,

That now desireth he no more

To part ye twain as heretofore.”

Exclaimed Fair-Welcome: “I agree.

Franchise, to that you ask of me.

Seeing that Danger grants your boon.”

Then Franchise hastened towards me soon.

Leading Fair-Welcome, who with bright

And friendly glances met my sight.

To tears of joy mine eyes did melt,

Assured in heart that nought he felt