Original
Modern English
The sun begins to gild the western sky; And now it is about the very hour That Silvia, at Friar Patrick’s cell, should meet me. She will not fail, for lovers break not hours, Unless it be to come before their time; So much they spur their expedition. See where she comes.
The sun starts to shine on the western sky; And now it’s around the time That Silvia, at Friar Patrick’s cell, should meet me. She won’t be late, because lovers don’t miss their time, Unless they come earlier than expected; They’re always rushing to meet each other. Look, here she comes.
Lady, a happy evening!
Lady, good evening!
Amen, amen! Go on, good Eglamour, Out at the postern by the abbey-wall: I fear I am attended by some spies.
Amen, amen! Hurry, good Eglamour, Out through the back gate by the abbey wall: I’m afraid there are some spies watching me.
Fear not: the forest is not three leagues off; If we recover that, we are sure enough.
Don’t worry: the forest is only three miles away; If we get there, we’ll be safe.