Page:Romance of the Rose (Ellis), volume 2.pdf/36

Though thousands light thereat, no less
The holder sees its radiantness.
The simile is plain enough
For all but minds ill-bred and rough.

But should these villain folk demand
Some service, lend a ready hand7800
Thereto, for gentle courtesy
Is soothing, yet let men not see
That you but make-believe the while,
With after purpose to beguile
Their watchfulness; pursue this rule,
And many a foe may you befool.

Whoso would see his foeman drowned
Or hanged should lovingly around
His neck embrace him, if he nought
Can otherwise be lightly brought7810
Beneath his will; but wherefore thus
Explain a thing so obvious?
These foes so subtle are and keen,
That open war would simply mean
Your good cause lost.
Gaolers must be bribed Then next, with care,
For other gaolers gifts prepare,
If you can reach them; seek to learn
What bribes will best their kindness earn:
A hat, or wicker bandelet,
With gay fresh-gathered flowers beset,7820
A broidered purse, a simple veil,
Some pretty trinkets, which, if frail
And little worth, are ne’ertheless
Of dainty taste and comeliness,