To the Lady that scorned her Lover

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 shew 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.