Malice, be sure! The timidest grew bold:

Of all that courtier-company not one

But left the semblance for the actual sun.

XLIV

And all sorts and conditions that stood by

At René's burning moment, bright escape

Of soul, bore witness to the prophecy.

Which witness took the customary shape

Of verse; a score of poets in full cry

Hailed the inspired one. Nantes and Tours agape,