Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 1.pdf/26

 xxiv But while the Dreamer is occupied with the fountain and the Rose-tree, the God of Love has been upon his track, and now, approaching within a short distance of his quarry, draws the bowstring to his ear and lets fly the arrow named Beauty, which pierces him through the eye. So sharply is it barbed that all his efforts to with­ draw it are unavailing. He tries to drag himself towards the Rose, but Cupid again draws upon him and he is pierced with the arrow named Simplicity, and successively with those hight Franchise, Companionship, and Fair-Seeming. The God of Love then anoints his victim with an unguent which allays the extreme anguish caused by the wounds.

The God now approaches him as he lies supine on the turf, tells him that all resistance is vain, and that he will do well to give himself up and acknowledge his conqueror for his lord and master.

To this the Dreamer agrees, and becomes Love’s vassal. [Henceforward he is called the Lover.] The God kisses the Lover’s lips, as token and seal that hereafter he claims him for his vassal and slave, and receives from his captive assurance of submission and devotion.

Cupid takes from his purse a golden key, wherewith he locks the heart of the Lover, and expresses his willingness to make known to him all such lore as pertains to his service, if he has