I. Now do I consider how I may compose a good vers, for love offers me the motive and the inspiration and brings me entirely under its command so that it retains my heart in pledge. Too greatly does it reveal to me its power, for now am I slain by the tribulation with which it has afflicted me on account of a lady whom it does not befit to notice me.
II. She pleases me more than any other and to her do I swear fealty henceforth. Although she desires me not, what does it matter? For I will yet be obedient to her just as if I had done her loyal homage. And great wrong would it be if the desire so to do were taken from me since all else fails me.
III. Greatly do I desire her love but dare not seek it; yet with veiled words do I speak to her of it and if she would look upon my countenance, no truer messenger would be needed, for often by the appearance alone can one so accustomed discern thoughts; and would that she remembered that he who complains is greatly desirous.
IV. I know full well that I love her if she but deigned to love me; but such is not her wish, and, on the contrary, she scorns me. Do you think that, when she recalls her great worth and noble lineage, she should not be very proud and aloof? But pity is wont to be of avail in love; behold the hope wherein I assuage my grief.
V. My good faith, then, will avail me, for I do not love deceitfully as do they who are dissimulating, wicked, false deceivers, flatterers and fickle. On the contrary, at all times have I set my heart on her and now I have constantly but one desire.
VI. This consolation is but a foolish hope, for in proud love, when it is too long drawn-out, must a man never place great trust. What, then, shall I do? Shall I quit this folly? Not I; and why? Because I wish to seek out my own hurt like him who is inflamed by gaming and loses continually in the hope of gain.
VII. Lady, read my desire in this vers and your generous, true and courteous heart will know how to choose that which befits you.
VIII. Often does a man who heeds too much his common sense suffer hurt and many a time great good results from foolishness. Therefore do I persist in this undertaking.
