Re: ofcourtesy

[Lance Harrop <lharrop@mrj.com>]

Lady Susanna, you wrote:
> 
> ---> & I say to you that there is no art to the simple.  If a
> single-stitched hem falls to the floor, then she has sewn it
> exactly so that none might mistake her intent.  A thread weaves its way
> in modest precision through cloth as words through meanings,
> binding in seam that which belongs together and snapping when
> stretched too tautly.
> 	If another's eyes brush her skirts aside, surely it is
> the stroke of some bright light in them and not the dull,
> scuffed leather of her boots which paints so imaginative a portrait.
> He who uncovers his canvas to sunlight only has no claim to
> clarity of vision; he underestimates the subtle strength of the common
> moon.
> 					In Service, 
> 						Susanna Grey

Wit and art combine with fair memories of a lady dressed not only as a 
glorious addition to court, adding delightful accent to the accolade of 
her good friend Corbie with spirited rendition of French airs, but 
armoured as defender of the honor and lands of noble Isenfir, or relaxing 
as she goes about the merchants stalls securing gifts and trinkets for 
those she holds dear.  Mine eyes do not penetrate, nor would they dare, 
cloth and leather, but rather note the passage beneath these of such comely 
form that it more then hints of earthly treasures which, I fear due to my 
estate and duties, I cannot partake but must, perforce, leave to others.

Even like these hints, are provided in this lady's manner, courtesy, 
bearing, and song a glimpse beneath of a soul full of light and 
goodness.  In this I delight I can, as best I may, fully enjoy this 
treasure.  None can, nor would any I think be fool to, deny me 
opportunity to partake in company and spirit of such.  Her eyes, as the 
poet said, are a window to this soul, and shine as does the sun that 
grace my shield.  Let said sun be my badge, proclaiming to all the honor 
and esteem I hold this and all such ladies by whose goodness and courtesy 
I find the courage to face this Known World, and if not yet to conquer, 
still to strive to every be my best, that I might in turn be ready to 
defend their name and honor against any so vile as to sully it.

> Let us continue this decorative banter on email, that others
> whose time allows no frolick, whose band dislikes much width,
> might have peace.
> 
Lord Ellwood has asked that we might continue at Cheapside, rather then 
withdraw, the continuation of this banter.  If any wish that we cease 
here, and take some private room at Merry Rose, with due chaperone of 
course, let them direct their comments to me and I shall make such 
arrangements.  Otherwise I shall continue here, for good Ellwood's 
education, and that of others, shall be forwarded by listening to Lady 
Susanna's artful prose, and my more humble replies.

In Service
Leifr