Proud victory over many a knight
By virtue’s power and strong-armed might.
Franchise.
The fairness of Franchise
Franchise stood next, on Largesse’ right,
Of skin as delicate, pure, and white1230
As hawthorn bloom or June-tide rose,
Not of the Orleans twist her nose,
But well formed, long and straight; her brow
Bore eyebrows arched like Cupid’s bow,
O’er laughing eyes; her long locks blond,
Her mien as simple, sweet and fond
As turtle-dove; her tender heart
Rejoiced in joy, or bore its part
With others’ sadness, and was fain
To keep her lips when speech woke pain.1240
So piteous was she and so true,
She ne’er would suffer one to rue
His life for love of her, nay more,
Such sympathy towards all she bore,
That when she saw some man who sighed
For her, she’d hasten to his side,
To save his soul from misery dire.
Of finest woof was her attire,
And warrant I that never lass
Betwixt this place and far Arras1250
Ware daintier raiment. It was sewed
And broidered in such skilful mode.
That doubt I much could seam or point
Have been more skilfully adjoint.
Grateful and charming to the eye,
Was Franchise’ modest bravery;
