Stephen Hawes - The True Knight

FOR knighthood is not in the feats of warre,
As for to fight in quarrel right or wrong,
But in a cause which truth can not defarre:
   He ought himself for to make sure and strong,
   Justice to keep mixt with mercy among:
   And no quarrell a knight ought to take
   But for a truth, or for the common's sake.

Stephen Hawes

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-true-knight/