49. ‘Perch’io t’abbia guardato di menzogna’

Though I’ve protected you from lying,

and have allowed you honourable speech,

ungrateful tongue you’ve not returned the honour,

but caused me anger and embarrassment:

and the more I’m in need of your help

to ask for mercy, the more frozen you are

and the words you make sound imperfect

like those made by a man in dreams.

And you, sad tears, you stay with me

all night, when I wish to be alone,

then vanish before the face of my peace:

And you, sighs, so ready to bring me anguish

and grief, issue slowly and brokenly then,

so that only my look’s not silent about my heart.