By letting all your blooming years pass by From beauteous maiden and become a matron true." Then Lisa, wrapt in virgin wonderment Of my condition and your lofty place. But heaven has seen that for no moment's space That soared to sing, to break its breast, and die. But if it wrought me what the world calls harm Fire, wounds, would wear from your dear will a charm. That you will be my knight is full content, And for that kiss-I pray, first for the queen's consent." Her answer, given with such firm gentleness, And so, all cloudy threats of grief dispelled, The queen a rare betrothal ring on each Bestowed, and other gems, with gracious speech. Adding much promise when he joined their hands. Gallant yet noble: "Now we claim our share Then taking her small face his hands between, Fit seal to that pure vision her young soul had seen. Sicilians witnessed that King Pedro kept Throughout his life the king still took delight Such deeds made subjects loyal in that land; The king of Sicily, and filled the room Of Frenchmen, who abused the Church's trust, Till, in a righteous vengeance on their lust, Messina rose, with God, and with the dagger's thrust. L'ENVOI. Reader, this story pleased me long ago In the bright pages of Boccaccio, And where the author of a good we know, Let us not fail to pay the grateful thanks we owe. THERE's no dew left on the daisies and clover, I've said my 66 seven times" over and over, Seven times one are seven. I am old, so old, I can write a letter; The lambs play always, they know no better; O moon! in the night I have seen you sailing You were bright! ah bright! but your light is failing— You moon, have you done something wrong in heaven I hope if you have you will soon be forgiven, O velvet bee, you're a dusty fellow, |