Classic Poem

For knighthood is not in the feats of war,
As for to fight in quarrel right or wrong,
But in a cause which truth can not defarre:
He ought himself for to make sure and strong,
Justice to keep, mixt with mercy among:
And no quarrel a knight ought to take
But for a truth, or for a woman's sake.
For first good hope his Leg-Harness should be,
His Habergeon, of perfect righteousness
Gird fast with the Girdle of chastity.
His rich Placard should be good business
Broidered with alms so full of largess;
The Helmet, meekness, and the Shield, good faith,
His Sword God's word, as Saint Paul saith.
Also true widows he ought to restore
Unto their right, for to attain their dower;
And to uphold, and maintain evermore
The wealth of maidens, with his mighty power.
And to his sovereign at every manner hour
To be ready, true, and eke obeisant
In stable love fixt, and not variant.