[This poem from Marshe's ed. of Skelton's Works, 1568.]
WHY WERE YE CALLIOPE EMBROIDERED WITH LETTERS OF GOLD?
SKELTON LAUREATE, ORATO. REG., MAKETH THIS ANSWER
CALLIOPE,
As ye may see,
Regent is she
Of poets all,
Which gave to me
The high degree
Laureate to be
Of fame royal;
Whose name enrolled
With silk and gold 10
I dare be bold
Thus for to wear.
Of her I hold
And her household;
Though I wax old
And somedeal sere,
Yet is she fain,
Void of disdain,
Me to retain
Her serviture: 20
With her certain
I will remain,
As my sovereign
Most of pleasure,
Maulgre touz malheureux.<1>
