Page:The New Life (Rossetti 1899) Siddal ed.djvu/82

76

She is as high as Nature's skill can soar;

Beauty is tried by her comparison.

Whatever her sweet eyes are turned upon,

Spirits of love do issue thence in flame,

Which through their eyes who then may look on them

Pierce to the heart's deep chamber every one.

And in her smile Love's image you may see;

Whence none can gaze upon her steadfastly.

Dear Song, I know thou wilt hold gentle speech

With many ladies, when I send thee forth:

Wherefore (being mindful that thou hadst thy birth

From Love, and art a modest, simple child),

Whomso thou meetest, say thou this to each:

"Give me good speed! To her I wend along

In whose much strength my weakness is made strong."

And if, i' the end, thou wouldst not be beguiled

Of all thy labour, seek not the defiled