Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 3.pdf/51

Rh

And when he shook it, though anear

One stood, he nought thereof would hear,

For shrieked it not, nor sang on high,

Although of wondrous potency.

His target was Retreat-obscure

(No bird e’er in a place more sure

Laid eggs), set round with alleys blind,

Through which no man his way could find.

On Shame he brought down such a stroke

With all his force, as well-nigh broke

Her neck, and left her all amazed.

O Shame! he cried, with voice loud raised,

The caitiff wretch vile Jealousy

Nought of the deed shall ever see,

That swear I faithfully, with hand

Uplift, as I before you stand,

A thousand oaths thereto I swear,

Shall that not ease your heart of care?

And since that Evil-Tongue is slain,

You must within my ward remain.

ERETO could Shame scarce make reply,

But Fear upleapt right wrathfully

(Though commonly so faint of heart),

On whom doth Shame quick glances dart;