Dame Honour

Honour of old had such high praise.
For otherwise men sought her than they seek her nowadays;
And whoso dared to bid her to his house, was held in honour high.
If anywhere she failed to meet
A hospitable host, she sped away with nimble feet;
No man would dare to do her disrespect or show discourtesy.
But now, should any man show but a tittle
Of love to her, in service great or little,
With grateful mien would she regard him.
The smallest boon she prizes much;
If one will deign to grant her such,
Down to the ground she bows her, to reward him.