Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 2.pdf/43

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In suchwise that, their avarice

Excited, they exalt the price

Of Roses.

These rich dullards dream

To gain advantage, but extreme

Of damage do themselves. Much gold

They pay for that which else were sold

At vilest price. ’Twere much the best

If each awhile forbore request

To such-like scum, right cheaply then

Were bought and sold these gaoler men.

If only suitors would arrange

Among themselves that no exchange

Of gifts go on or prayers be made

To watch-dogs, then ere long were stayed

Traffic in roses, which must die

If none were found to bribe or buy.

Assuredly I love not well

Men who abase themselves to sell

Their faith for filthy lucre, and

Not willingly would set my hand

To such-like business. Yet delay

Must you avoid, and smooth the way

Through them for that you’re bent to do,

Setting the nets to win for you

The game you follow.

Should you stay,

Rivals may gather day by day,

Not one or two, but many a score,

Aye, and perchance some hundreds more

In two-and-fifty weeks, till last

You’ll find your chances spent and past.