I. I was minded not to sing this year, although it is distasteful to me, on account of the hurt that is come upon me, and it grieves me that I have received an injunction and command to do so from that quarter where everything pleases me, from my lady Marqueza. And since I have promised her my song, I ought to make it graceful; gay and of some merit, for I know that if it appeals to her, it will be sung and learned in many a high place.
II. It will be learned, but for myself I know not how to sing. The more I have put all my effort into it, the greater difficulty I have in doing or saying anything cheerful, so much has sorrow taken root in my heart; for if it does not please her who has captured my love quickly to make good my hurt, never in my lifetime will I bestir myself to seek out any other mistress.
III. Sought out, no! for in one quarter only have I ever loved and may it never please God to be so remiss towards me that I should seek another lady or renounce my mistress. Ever will my love be pure and true and so completely am I at her good mercy that, if happiness comes not again to me from her, I swear to you that never through my own efforts will joy be mine.
IV. But if it please her, joy will come to me and that speedily, for I think and believe that she does not desire me to be brought low, wherefore I am never afraid, for I have heard say that ‘He acts badly who despairs’. Alas! sweet, fair, courteous, joyous lady! For you I sigh and weep and lament often because you do not feel the great sorrow that I feel, nor have I a friend who might reveal it to you.
V. But often, lady, when I am with him to whom I dare reveal my heart, I relate your great beauty and your deeds so fair which are pleasing to everybody . . . . . . until my companion is with me no more. Thus it pleases me to speak of it for no other consolation have I in my hurt.
VI. It grieves me because I cannot see her who holds my heart in thrall and I am here, whence I now send all my songs as a rule to the fair and high-born Tot-mi-plaz, the fair one of high birth, because she desires them; singing would please me but little if it were not for her, but he who beholds her pleasing countenance cannot help but rejoice and be happy.
VII. Sir Tot-mi-plai, you are enthroned in my heart and greatly do I love you without any pretence, for there is no one after my lady who is dearer to me; but it is only right that she should have the preference.
