I. On my wonted theme will it behove me to sing as usual, for ungraciously does my lady summon me and receive me in her service. Truly did her fair eyes betray me after the manner of a false messenger when they inspired me with that love of her which is now my sorrow.
II. If she does me wrong and treats me haughtily, and shows herself cruel and intractable towards me, yet do I love and desire her the more, so that I can pledge myself to no other. At all times I think of my hurt and I know that I behave foolishly in not departing from her.
III. I can in no wise depart from her whatever suffering she may cause me. On the contrary, I rejoice thereat. Do you know why? She will learn if I love her greatly, for never will a man be a true lover until he can on no account forsake his lady.
IV. Of a truth, it pleases me greatly when I hear speak of the honour and worth that she upholds, for then it seems to me that I am with her; and when I am minded to turn my thoughts elsewhere, love of her comes quickly to change my intention. Behold the help that she accords me!
V. So long have I been grieved and suffered affliction and martyrdom and dire and harsh torments that I abandon hope. Now at least, if I were at last to attain happiness, I know that after the longing the joy would be sweeter.
