But hearts spoke louder than the priestly word,

And youth and love o’erleaped the barrier dread.

No will of wax had England’s future King;

With iron hand he brushed the curse aside,

As ’twere a slight and disregarded thing,

And asking leave of no man, claimed his bride.

And they were happy, spite of ban and blame,

Rich in renown, estate, in valiant deed;

And the sweet Duchess at her broidery frame

Wrought her lord’s victories for all men to read.