a flower that bent downward and touched the beginnings
of the lines below; while another flower, embracing the
ends of the lines, brought them to the ear of the figure on
the right, Alazais, near whom stood Love in the form of
an angel inviting her to listen to the words presented by
the flower.

Though parchment was dear the letter was not brief,--
and indeed how could it be? For lovers know there is
only a single thing worth talking about, but that is one
which includes everything.

Lady,

Whose charms my words defy,
For whom I ever yearn and sigh,
This friend of yours, sincere and leal,--
His name you can divine, I feel,--
His faithful greeting would present,
And crave that answering word be sent,--
For naught he wishes but from you. . . .
O courtly lady, skilled to do
What pleases all,--discerning, taught
All grace of action, word, and thought,
Your beauty and your graciousness,
Your pleasant words and sweet address,
Accomplishments and sterling worth,
Fresh cheeks and form surpassing earth,
Your lovely smile, your glance that arms
With amorous might your other charms,
Your grace, your wit,--they all unite
To keep me pensive day and night.

Because your face I cannot see,
All cheer and joy are gone for me;
For me are gone all cheer and joy,--
To lose you quite would life destroy;
For lingering hope and lingering care,
Too many a vigil, sleep too rare,
And longings for a glimpse of you,
So break my peace whate'er I do,
That countless times each night and day

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