XX

'It shall be as thou wishest,' said the Dame:

      'All cates and dainties shall be stored there

      Quickly on this feast-night: by the tambour frame

      Her own lute thou wilt see: no time to spare,

      For I am slow and feeble, and scarce dare

      On such a catering trust my dizzy head.

      Wait here, my child, with patience; kneel in prayer

      The while: Ah! thou must needs the lady wed,

Or may I never leave my grave among the dead.'