Classic Poem

Seven Knights a shrine about,
Over a wall of shields look out
Each banner a scroll of fame
Each sword as a thunder-flame
Each face as a sun
But a maid's gifts are as God's gifts
And who shall count thereon.

Seven Knights of the Court of Love
Each has her for a star above
Seven smite in a single name
Seven hearts are hearts of flame
Round where she doth sit
But a maid's choice is as God's choice
And who shall challenge it.

Seven Knights of the world's emprise
Seven in vigil and fast made wise
Seven with high helms crowned and cleft
One shall be taken the other left
Seven swords of love
But a maid's heart is as God's heart
And who shall speak thereof.

Seven Knights their brows that rear
Cleansed and christened of sacred fear
Seven warriors strong and sad
Seven Christs in armour clad
Seven kin and kith
But a maid's will is as God's will
And who shalt strive therewith.

Seven titans, huge and starred
Seven giants of God's own guard
These may merit all years' renown,
Fit for these be the robe and crown,
Heaven's fields befit
But a maid's grace is as God's grace
And who shall merit it.