For nothing ever suits so well
As simple frock for demoiselle,
And that in which Franchise was dight,
Linen of pure and spotless white,1260
By dyes unstained, did well express
The maiden’s inward loveliness.
Beside Franchise a stripling stood,
Of noble port and lustihood,
But how he named him knew I not,
Yet one so fair of mien I wot,
And gaily clad as bird in spring,
Were well the son of Windsor’s king.
VIII
Herein the author’s pen essays
To show why Courtesy the praise1270
Deserves of all men; love she spreads
Around her wheresoe’er she treads.
The praise of Courtesy
And next stood gracious Courtesy,
Who ne’er midst men can fail to be
Welcome: strangers to her are pride
And folly. Straightway to her side
She summoned me with kindly call
To join the gladsome dance withal.
Frank-eyed she was, and no deal shy
Or timid, but most graciously1280
Spake forth to me in friendly wise,
With pleasant words and quaint replies,
Wherein one found no poison lurk.
Her form was nature’s perfect work,
And e’en as stars like candles mean
Beside the moon’s bright rays are seen,
