Another message to my lady
A little more wild imagining

Forsooth my lady but I am in thy debt

And where better to be methinks on this day of all days

I have soldiered long and hard in thy service

And presently we rest in preparation for new battles to come
 

Ten thousand ducats shall do thy bidding. The chest came into

My possession today and it will be put to good use

My soldiers are short funded as too my knights and my men-at-arms

But your generosity shall see to it that these splendid warriors want for

Nothing in the crushing days to come
 

I am conscious of the deprivation and prolonged suffering in your kingdom

And I am conscious too of the dire need for a speedy victory

As I write my men are preparing for a second attack

The blacksmith's forge glows cherry red and his water bath

Quenches the finest steel in readiness of fresh flesh to saviour
 

We will cut and hack our way through your enemies this day my lady

Blood will flow and bodies fall in the name of justice

By God they will know the true reach of our trebuchet before this day is done

Your enemies shall not conquer nor, I wager, shall their gains

Be any greater than cold steel and a burial ground
 

But I have bad news too. My recent betrothal has come to nought

You recall my longing for a good woman and a good wife? It was not to be

During a recent battle my new love fell foul of a withering crossfire

I held what remained of her in my arms throughout the night

Had my prayers been worthy of my God she would perhaps be with me today

But she is not and so I fight on making you my lady the sole purpose of my life

As for my new love, she is buried here with my heart in this distant land
 

More anon
 

©Joseph G Dawson