1. I say, though she who craves my aid has said:
"Gently! Gentleness endureth and attaineth."

2. If thou hast nothing to supply her wants anew,
To generosity thou'rt prompted when she sues.

3. And she says, "Let thy heart its love dissemble;"
Yet still we know full well, "Is thy love true?"

4. Thereby thou attainest all the aims thou sought'st
And op'st a gate that, save for thee, was shut.

5. I said to her, "Thou driv'st me not, except
That taking risks, my love, is safer yet.

6. I dread a death that comes with direst sting,
Or eld that makes me all I love forget.

7. And sundry things, like satiety
And taedium, and a favourable eyne to see,

8. And then to love - How canst thou promise me
That our delight shall last in stable gree,