I. Separated as I have been from Joy, I have for a long period refrained from joy and song; but now amid the snow and ice I joyfully embrace happiness again, and if joy and pleasure are mine I do not think it fitting that I should refrain from presenting a joyful and happy countenance, seeing that, when things go wrong, I am correspondingly downcast.
II. For it seems wickedness to me, however one argues the matter, to be joyful or wrathful for any cause if each one does not present himself at his trysting-place; and if, in that place, he does not reveal his wrath or his pleasure in respect of the fact that trouble has wrongfully come upon him, I consider him negligent and wicked.
III. For him to whom Fis-Jois is given, she who is noble and fair, loyal and true of heart, it is fitting that his pleasure should increase. Do you know why I began to tell you this? Because a deceiver of no worth wishes to attain to the joy that befits the most courteous; and consider if it is fitting. For he is of little worth when he is despondent and less when he is joyful.
IV. For I behold several foolish, talkative, stupid slanderers —whom God curse!— who even think that they are of great worth; but their deeds are wicked, for they strive so much for my hurt that they make my lady afraid so that I do not dare even to see her. Grieved am I thereat and turn away filled with vexation and grief, for the sight of any other than her displeases me.
V. Gracious and esteemed Fis-Jois, if I lose my good intent because of a treacherous slanderer, great sin will be yours! For never could I love anything as much as you in whom I put my hopes. Therefore may you not show yourself proud nor believe the eminent slanderers who undo the good wrought by right and mercy.
