Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 3.pdf/38

16

And soon as by the host was seen

This compact and firm league between

The guardians, they a bond likewise

Fast swore, and pledged them to the eyes

To stand together in that place

Till grim death met they, face to face.

With warlike rage their bosoms glow

The guardians’ pride to overthrow,

And one and all prepare to meet

The foe, for victory or defeat.

Now hear you how the battle went,

As each ’gainst each his fury spent.

UNDERSTAND, ye lovers true

(May Venus’ son keep watch o’er you

For ever, with a gentle eye),

Within this bosket you the cry

May hear of dogs as they pursue

The coney, and the ferret too

Shall drive him onwards towards the snare

Which subtle hands for him prepare.

In noting all that I have said,

You will in love be well bestead,

And if you aught of trouble find,

Thereon will I illume your mind,