1. A return of love from me for the successors I have turned away,
No longer singing praises for them alone.

2. None became famed but those of whom I sang,
And though they provided, and gave beyond provision,

3. In receiving the heavy tribute was taken a share,
And around redistribution turned the wheel,

4. Of no avail were title-deeds made firm, and what
Was pledged therein of security and contract.

5. Give back the rhymes gone by, which gained you
No praise, no glory for their making.

6. A youth now ripened have I, whose freshness
Was tendered you, tender as the youth sheds his coat.

7. I am not for shares as you enrol me,
My peers before me ranked or after.

8. My way is I be given what you ask of me,
My right that I give naught, nor you give aught.

9. I followed men, from whom I sought money,
How then shall money be what I seek?