ABSTRACT
The kings of yore a custom had, so I’ve been told, Of course thou’st heard it;—must remember it, of old, On their left hand their champions took their usual place; Because the heart is on the left of body’s space. Their chancellor and scribes stood on their right hand all; In that the writer’s art to the right hand doth fall. Before their face the holy teachers stood erect,— The mirrors of the soul;—than mirror more correct. Their breasts they’ve polished with the acts of thought and praise, 5 That, mirror-like, they catch each image facts may raise. Each object born in nature with a lovely mien Should always have a mirror set to catch its sheen. A beauteous face enamoured is with mirror’s glance; Heart’s piety’s the polish best the soul can chance.
