High and Low

Friends greet me oft (and truth to tell,
I like that greeting none too well):—
"Hartmann, come, our trade is
To visit courtly ladies!"
Would they would leave me in peace alone,
And to their ladies quick begone!
With such I get no further on
Than standing by them like a stone.

Towards ladies this is my decree:
I am to them as they to me.
I get more recreation
With girls of humbler station.
I meet with plenty such and find
Among them some of friendlier kind
And just the women to my mind.
To aim too high I'm not inclined.

For, like the fool I was, one day
To such a dame I chanced to say,—
"Lady, my heart's endeavour
Is to attain thy favour!"
Then on her face a frown did rise,
So I confess without disguise,
On women I will cast my eyes
Who will not treat me in such wise.