The Argument + 

“Of how, through Woman-Worship, knaves compound + 

With honoure; Kings reck not of their domaine; + 

Proud Pontiffs sigh; & War-men world-renownd, + 

Toe win one Woman, all things else disdaine: + 

Since Melicent doth in herselfe contayne + 

All this world’s Riches that may farre be found. + 

“If Saphyres ye desire, her eies are plaine; + 

If Rubies, loe, hir lips be Rubyes sound; + 

If Pearles, hir teeth be Pearles, both pure & round; + 

If Yvorie, her forehead Yvory weene; + 

If Gold, her locks with finest Gold abound; + 

If Silver, her faire hands have Silver’s sheen. + 

“Yet that which fayrest is, but Few beholde, + 

Her Soul adornd with vertues manifold.” + 

Sir William Allonby + 