My Lady’s Law

1 
The Law whereby my lady moves
 Was never Law to me,
 But ’tis enough that she approves
 Whatever Law it be. 
2
For in that Law, and by that Law,
 My constant course I’ll steer;
 Not that I heed or deem it dread,
 But that she holds it dear. 
3
Tho’ Asia sent for my content
 Her richest argosies,
 Those would I spurn, and bid return,
 If that should give her ease. 
4
With equal heart I’d watch depart
 Each spicèd sail from sight,
 Sans bitterness, desiring less
 Great gear than her delight. 
5
Though Kings made swift with many a gift
 My proven sword to hire—
 I would not go nor serve ’em so—
 Except at her desire. 
6
With even mind, I’d put behind
 Adventure and acclaim,
 And clean give o’er, esteeming more
 Her favour than my fame. 
7
Yet such am I, yea such am I—
 Sore bond and freest free,
 The Law that sways my lady’s ways
 Is mystery to me!

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