Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 1.pdf/23

 Rh of it; and that the fair trees with which it is planted had by him been brought from the land of the Saracens. Passing the gate, at the invitation of Idleness, the Dreamer listens with delight to the many-voiced birds, and is so entranced with the beauty of the place, that he deems forsooth he must have happed upon the Earthly Paradise. His new-found acquaintance tells him, moreover, that the lord of the fair spot is just now present, having come thither to listen to the melody of the birds and enjoy the varied beauties of the garden in company with his friends. He wanders through shady alleys till he comes on a secluded spot where he discovers Mirth surrounded by a merry company.

He beholds these joyous folk join the dance, while a damsel named Gladness sings entrancingly. A description is given of the dan­cers, and of the minstrels who make melody with voice, pipe, and string.

He beholds these joyous folk join the dance, while a damsel named Gladness sings entrancingly. A description is given of the dan­cers, and of the minstrels who make melody with voice, pipe, and string.

After a while the Dreamer is approached by Courtesy, who takes him by the hand and invites him to join the dance as her companion. He describes at full the persons and attire of Mirth and Gladness.

Ere long he perceives the God of Love coming towards him, accompanied by Sweet-Looks, who carries two bows, the one gnarled, knotted, and hideous; the other flexible and