Classic Poem

Although I had a check,
To give the mate is hard,
For I have found a neck
To keep my men in guard.
And you that hardy are
To give so great assay
Unto a man of war,
To drive his men away.

I rede you take good heed
And mark this foolish verse
For I will so provide
That I will have your ferse.
And when your ferse is had,
And all your war is done,
Then shall yourself be glad
To end that you begun.

For if by chance I win
Your person in the field,
Too late then come you in
Yourself to me to yield.
For I will use my power,
As captain full of might;
And such I will devour
As use to show me spite.

And for because you gave
Me check in such degree,
This vantage, lo, I have:
Now check, and guard to thee.
Defend it if thou may;
Stand stiff in thine estate;
For sure I will assay
If I can give thee mate.