The speaker has left her old life to be with Reynardine, a magnetic, uncanny figure who courted her by day and night. His eyes are “red as wine,” and he takes her as his leman—an old word for sweetheart or mistress. Though hunters blow horns and beagles chase, they cannot find where he hides, because he is a fairy or spirit. The speaker sounds devoted rather than afraid: she calls him “sweet,” and she tells anyone searching for her that she will be in his castle, so they should ask for him there. The mood is dreamy and folk-ballad-like, mixing romance with something wild and slightly dangerous. It feels like slipping across a boundary into an enchanted, secret place—half-willingly, and beyond being followed.
Reynardine — Summary
If by chance you look for me Perhaps you'll not me find, For I'll be in my castle-- Enquire for Reynardine!
Sun and dark he courted me-- His eyes were red as wine: He took me for his leman, Did my sweet Reynardine.
Sun and dark the gay horn blows, The beagles run like wind: They know not where he harbours, The fairy Reynardine.
If by chance you look for me Perhaps you'll not me find, For I'll be in my castle-- Enquire for Reynardine!