“_Vif Désire_” then armed “_Cuer_” with a blade of steel, keen and bright, a helmet stamped with amorous thoughts bearing the crest of hope, three blooms of “_N’oubliez mye_.” Then led gently forth, he meets “_Franc Vouloir_,” tall and strong, and fully armed for all emergencies; and putting spurs to his charger, he goes off at a gallop with his companions. Over hill and dale they dash, until they come in view of a lovely damsel-- “plaiesante et blonde Et de tous biens la plus parfaict du monde.” After passing through a weird forest, they emerge upon a smiling valley, where they behold a sumptuous palace. On approaching, they see a very splendid column of jasper, and after dismounting they read the inscription carved thereon: “A vous, tous Cuers gentilz et gracieux, Qui conquérir voulez pour valori mieulx Du Dieu d’Amour et de vos Dames aussi Doulce grace et eureuse mercy. N’ayez en vous changement de pensée Pour delaissier vos premières amours, Soiez loyaux sans varier tousjours, Pitie pur vous ne sera par lasée.” Whilst pondering over this epithet, a very beautiful woman approaches them, splendidly attired in royal robes, and seizes hold of the reins of “_Franc Vouloir’s_” steed. “_Cuer_” at once turns to her, and, kneeling, kisses her hand and asks her name. “_Douce Éspérance_,” she replies, “and I greet you, worthy gentlemen, and desire to set you on your way.” Directed by this gracious lady, they reach the shores of a great lake or sea, and, moored by the water’s edge, they espy a little sailing vessel, and in it two lovely maidens--“_Fiance_” and “_Actente_”--about whom “_Douce Éspérance_” had spoken. Leaving their mounts to wander free, the travellers board the frail craft, and, presto! they are at the glorious temple of the Isle of Love. The day passes dillydally; they all sup together, and the sweet, soft shadows hide their repose. Other characters are “_Bel Accueil_,” “_Franchise_,” “_Piété_,” “_Faux Semblant_,” and “_Largesse_”; and the allegory ends, as all should do, in the complete victory of Cupid.