Balade

(from the French of Wenceslas, Duke of Brabant and Luxembourg, who died in 1384.)

I cannot tell, of twain beneath this bond,

Which one in grief the other goes beyond,---

Narcissus, who to end the pain he bore

Died of the love that could not help him more;

Or I, that pine because I cannot see

The lady who is queen and love to me.

Nay--for Narcissus, in the forest pond

Seeing his image, made entreaty fond,

"Beloved, comfort on my longing pour":

So for a while he soothed his passion sore;

So cannot I, for all too far is she---

The lady who is queen and love to me.

But since that I have Love's true colours donned,

I in his service will not now despond,

For in extremes Love yet can all restore:

So till her beauty walks the world no more

All day remembered in my hope shall be

The lady who is queen and love to me.