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Rh

ARD by a fountain fresh and clear

(While musing on my Rosebud dear)

I found a sweet sequestered spot

Where sat a dame, whom all would wot

Of lovely form and joyous face,

Beneath a leafy elm her place.

A gallant stood beside the dame,

(Of whom I wist nor rank nor name)

But her I knew for Dame Richesse,

By all men held of great noblesse,

And o’er a pleasant pathway guard

She kept, and all intrusion barred.

Soon as I saw them I inclined

My head, and well was pleased to find

Return thereof, but that was all

My welcoming. In accent small

And soft I gently asked if they

Could to Much-Giving point the way;

And Richesse, speaking first, replied.

In tones that savoured scorn and pride:

Behold the path, I hold the way.