Page:If I Were King (1901).pdf/60

From Paris to the Breton sea,
 And back again to Norman strand,
Forsooth ye seem a silly band,
 Sheep without shepherd, left to chance—
Far otherwise our Fatherland
 If Villon were the King of France!"

Louis glanced grimly at Tristan; the rogues rubbed their hands and chuckled. Villon smiled in pride and went on:

"The figure on the throne you see
 Is nothing but a puppet, planned
To wear the regal bravery
 Of silken coat and gilded wand.
Not so we Frenchmen understand
 The Lord of lion's heart and glance,
And such a one would take command
 If Villon were the King of France!"

The king's face was a study in sardonics. Tristan was poppy-red with rage. The gang applauded and Villon glowed with their applause.

"His counsellors are rogues, Perdie!
 While men of honest mind are banned.
To creak upon the Gallows Tree,
 Or squeal in prisons over-mann'd;