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Rudyard Kipling (1865–1936). Verse: 1885–1918. 1922.

My Lady’s Law

THE LAW whereby my lady moves

Was never Law to me,

But ’tis enough that she approves

Whatever Law it be.

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.

Tho’ Asia sent for my content

Her richest argosies,

Those would I spurn, and bid return,

If that should give her ease.

With equal heart I’d watch depart

Each spicèd sail from sight,

Sans bitterness, desiring less

Great gear than her delight.

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.

With even mind, I’d put behind

Adventure and acclaim,

And clean give o’er, esteeming more

Her favour than my fame.

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!