Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 2.pdf/36

8

Though thousands light thereat, no less

The holder sees its radiantness.

The simile is plain enough

For all but minds ill-bred and rough.

But should these villain folk demand

Some service, lend a ready hand

Thereto, for gentle courtesy

Is soothing, yet let men not see

That you but make-believe the while,

With after purpose to beguile

Their watchfulness; pursue this rule,

And many a foe may you befool.

Whoso would see his foeman drowned

Or hanged should lovingly around

His neck embrace him, if he nought

Can otherwise be lightly brought

Beneath his will; but wherefore thus

Explain a thing so obvious?

These foes so subtle are and keen,

That open war would simply mean

Your good cause lost.

Then next, with care,

For other gaolers gifts prepare,

If you can reach them; seek to learn

What bribes will best their kindness earn:

A hat, or wicker bandelet,

With gay fresh-gathered flowers beset,

A broidered purse, a simple veil,

Some pretty trinkets, which, if frail

And little worth, are ne’ertheless

Of dainty taste and comeliness,