He.

1141.

By this same rumour's rise, my precious life stands fast;

Good fortune grant the many know this not!

1142.

The village hath to us this rumour giv'n, that makes her mine;

Unweeting all the rareness of the maid with flower-like eyne.

1143.

The rumour spread within the town, is it not gain to me?

It is as though that were obtained that may not be.

1144.

The rumour rising makes my love to rise;

My love would lose its power and languish otherwise.

1145.

The more man drinks, the more he ever drunk would be;

The more my love's revealed, the sweeter 'tis to me!

She.

1146.

I saw him but one single day: rumour spreads soon

As darkness, when the dragon seizes on the moon.

1147.

My anguish grows apace: the town's report

Manures it; my mother's word doth water it.

1148.

With butter-oil extinguish fire! 'Twill prove

Harder by scandal to extinguish love.

1149.

When he who said 'Fear not!' hath left me blamed,

While many shrink, can I from rumour hide ashamed?

1150.

If we desire, who loves will grant what we require;

This town sends forth the rumour we desire!