Note 39 — AUCASSIN & NICOLETTE
Francis William Bourdillon translation
The device of the warder is to give his warning in the guise of an Aubade, as if he were merely singing for his own amusement. The Aubade, or Watch-song, was a favourite lyrical form in Southern France. It was originally a dialogue between the lover, the lady, and the watchman who played sentinel, and warned them that the Dawn was coming.