I have been a foster Long and many a day.Foster will I be no more-- No longer shoot I may. Yet have I been a foster.
Hang I will my noble bow Upon the greenwood bough,For I cannot shoot in plain Nor yet in rough Yet have I been a foster.
Every bow for me is too big. Mine arrow nigh worn is.The glue is slipped from the nick. When I should shoot, I miss. Yet have I been a foster.
Lady Venus hath commanded me Out of her court to go.Right plainly she shewith me That beauty is my foe. Yet have I been a foster.
My beard is so hard, God wot, When I should maidens kiss,They stand aback and make it strange. Lo, age is cause of this. Yet have I been a foster.
Now will I take to me my beads For and my saints' book,And pray I will for them that may, For I may nought but look. Yet have I been a foster.
