France, once they used to call you

Poem by Charles D'Orléans Collection BalladsPeriod 15th century

France, once they used to call you,
In all countries, the treasure of nobility,
For everyone could find in you
Goodness, honor, loyalty, kindness,
Clergy, sense, courtesy, prowess.
All foreigners loved to follow you.
And now see, of which I have displeasure,
That you must sustain many a grievous ill,
Most Christian, frank kingdom of France.

Do you know whence comes your evil, truly speaking?
Do you not know why you are in sorrow?
I want to tell it, to acquit myself toward you,
Listen to me and you will act wisely.
Your great pride, gluttony, sloth,
Covetousness, without holding justice,
And lust, of which you have had abundance,
Have pursued God to punish you,
Most Christian, frank kingdom of France.

Do not, however, wish to despair,
For God is full of mercy, in largesse.
Go to him to ask for his grace,
For he has made you, already long ago, a promise
(Provided you make Humility your advocate)
That he will be most joyful to heal you;
Entirely place in him your trust,
For you and all, he willed to die on the cross,
Most Christian, frank kingdom of France…

And I, Charles, Duke of Orléans, rhymed
These verses in the time of my youth;
Before everyone I wish to acknowledge them,
For I made them as a prisoner, I confess it;
Praying to God that before I reach old age,
The time of peace may come everywhere,
As with all my heart I long for it,
And that I may see all your ills quickly end,
Most Christian, frank kingdom of France!

(*) had the habit

Charles D’Orléans

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