The story of Alexander is so commúne, That ev’ry wight that hath discretioún Hath heard somewhat or all of his fortúne. This widë world, as in conclusioún, 4177 He won by strength; or, for his high renown, They werë glad for peace to him to send. The pride and boast of man he laid adown, Whereso he came, unto the worldë’s end.

Comparison yet 4178 never might be maked Between him and another conqueroúr; For all this world for dread of him had quaked; He was of knighthood and of freedom flow’r: Fortúne him made the heir of her honoúr. Save wine and women, nothing might assuage His high intent in armës and laboúr, So was he full of leonine couráge.