Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 1.pdf/109

Then of its bravery abate
Somewhat to suit thy lesser state:
But let thy ’tiring be no worse
Than fits the coin that lines thy purse.
A wildflower chaplet mayst thou boast,
Or roses blown at Pentecost,2250 Give heed to purity
At modest charge. Sweet cleanliness
Use thou as part of gentleness.
Wash oft thine hands, and ne’er forget
Thy teeth to whiten, nor e’er let
Thy finger nails untended be,
But pare and keep them carefully.
Lace well thy sleeves, and comb thine hair,
But painted face and leering stare
Disdain, it suits but women or
Vile men, who get due scorn therefor.2260

And next remember that, above
All else, gay heart inspireth love.
A laughing mouth and merry smile
May oft a lady’s heart beguile;
A sweet disease that casteth care
Is love, and many a joy doth bear;
Yet oft-times lovers undergo
Immingled hours of joy and woe;
One day consumed in sweet delight,
The next involved in sorrow’s night;2270
For love goes ever in extremes;
Sometimes enwrapt in pleasant dreams
The lover is, then lost in tears,
A medley strange of hopes and fears.

If thou shouldst know some cheerful play
Or game to wile dull hours away,