The+Pardoner's+Tale

THE PARDONER'S TALE In Flanders, once, there was a company  Of young companions given to folly,  Riot and gambling, brothels and taverns;  And, to the music of harps, lutes, gitterns,  They danced and played at dice both day and night.  And ate also and drank beyond their might,  Whereby they made the devil's sacrifice  Within that devil's temple, wicked wise,  By superfluity both vile and vain.  So damnable their oaths and so profane  That it was terrible to hear them swear;  Our Blessed Saviour's Body did they tear;  They thought the Jews had rent Him not enough;  And each of them at others' sins would laugh.  Then entered dancing-girls of ill repute, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Graceful and slim, and girls who peddled fruit, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Harpers and bawds and women selling cake, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who do their office for the Devil's sake, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To kindle and blow the fire of lechery, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Which is so closely joined with gluttony; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I call on holy writ, now, to witness <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That lust is in all wine and drunkenness. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Lo, how the drunken Lot unnaturally <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Lay with his daughters two, unwittingly; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So drunk he was he knew not what he wrought. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Herod, as in his story's clearly taught, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When full of wine and merry at a feast, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Sitting at table idly gave behest <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To slay John Baptist, who was all guiltless. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Seneca says a good word too, doubtless; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He says there is no difference he can find <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Between a man that's quite out of his mind <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And one that's drunken, save perhaps in this <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That when a wretch in madness fallen is, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The state lasts longer than does drunkenness. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O gluttony; full of all wickedness, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O first cause of confusion to us all, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Beginning of damnation and our fall, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Till Christ redeemed us with His blood again! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Behold how dearly, to be brief and plain, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Was purchased this accursed villainy; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Corrupt was all this world with gluttony! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Adam our father, and his wife also, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> From Paradise to labour and to woe <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Were driven for that vice, no doubt; indeed <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The while that Adam fasted, as I read, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He was in Paradise; but then when he <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Ate of the fruit forbidden of the tree, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Anon he was cast out to woe and pain. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O gluttony, of you we may complain! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Oh, knew a man how many maladies <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Follow on excess and on gluttonies, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Surely he would be then more moderate <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In diet, and at table more sedate. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Alas! The throat so short, the tender mouth, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Causing that east and west and north and south, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In earth, in air, in water men shall swink <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To get a glutton dainty meat and drink! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of this same matter Paul does wisely treat: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Meat for the belly and belly for the meat: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And both shall God destroy," as Paul does say. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Alas! A foul thing is it, by my fay, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To speak this word, and fouler is the deed, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When man so guzzles of the white and red <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That of his own throat makes he his privy, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Because of this cursed superfluity. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The apostle, weeping, says most piteously: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "For many walk, of whom I've told you, aye, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Weeping I tell you once again they're dross, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For they are foes of Christ and of the Cross, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Whose end is death, whose belly is their god." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O gut! O belly! O you stinking cod, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Filled full of dung, with all corruption found! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> At either end of you foul is the sound. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With how great cost and labour do they find <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Your food! These cooks, they pound and strain and grind; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Substance to accident they turn with fire, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> All to fulfill your gluttonous desire! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Out of the hard and riven bones knock they <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The marrow, for they throw nothing away <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That may go through the gullet soft and sweet; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With spicery, with leaf, bark, root, replete <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Shall be the sauces made for your delight, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To furnish you a sharper appetite. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But truly, he that such delights entice <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Is dead while yet he wallows in this vice. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A lecherous thing is wine, and drunkenness <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Is full of striving and of wretchedness. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O drunken man, disfigured is your face, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Sour is your breath, foul are you to embrace, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And through your drunken nose there comes a sound <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As if you snored out "Samson, Samson" round; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And yet God knows that Samson drank no wine. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You fall down just as if you were stuck swine; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Your tongue is loose, your honest care obscure; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For drunkenness is very sepulture <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of any mind a man may chance to own. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In whom strong drink has domination shown <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He can no counsel keep for any dread. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Now keep you from the white and from the red, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And specially from the white wine grown at Lepe <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That is for sale in Fish Street or in Cheap. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This wine of Spain, it mixes craftily <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With other wines that chance to be near by, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> From which there rise such fumes, as well may be, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That when a man has drunk two draughts, or three, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And thinks himself to be at home in Cheap, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He finds that he's in Spain, and right at Lepe,- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Not at Rochelle nor yet at Bordeaux town, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And then will he snore out "Samson, Samson." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But hearken, masters, one word more I pray: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The greatest deeds of all, I'm bold to say, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of victories in the old testament, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Through the True God, Who is omnipotent, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Were gained by abstinence and after prayer: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Look in the Bible, you may learn this there. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Lo, Attila, the mighty conqueror, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Died in his sleep, in shame and dishonour, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And bleeding at the nose for drunkenness; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A great captain should live in soberness. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Above all this, advise yourself right well <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What was commanded unto Lemuel- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Not Samuel, but Lemuel, say I- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The Bible's words you cannot well deny: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Drinking by magistrates is called a vice. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> No more of this, for it may well suffice. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And now that I have told of gluttony, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I'll take up gambling, showing you thereby <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The curse of chance, and all its evils treat; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> From it proceeds false swearing and deceit, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Blaspheming, murder, and- what's more- the waste <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of time and money; add to which, debased <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And shamed and lost to honour quite is he, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who once a common gambler's known to be. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And ever the higher one is of estate, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The more he's held disgraced and desolate. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And if a prince plays similar hazardry <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In all his government and policy, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He loses in the estimate of men <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> His good repute, and finds it not again. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Chilon, who was a wise ambassador, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Was sent to Corinth, all in great honour, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> From Lacedaemon, to make alliance. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And when he came, he noticed there, by chance, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> All of the greatest people of the land <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Playing at hazard there on every hand. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Wherefore, and all as soon as it might be, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He stole off home again to his country, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And said: "I will not thus debase my name; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Nor will I take upon me so great shame <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You to ally with common hazarders. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Send, if you will, other ambassadors; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For, my truth, I say I'd rather die <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Than you with gamblers like to them ally. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For you that are so glorious in honours <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Shall never ally yourselves with hazarders <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> By my consent, or treaty I have made." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This wise philosopher, 'twas thus he said. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Let us look, then, at King Demetrius. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The king of Parthia, as the book tells us, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Sent him a pair of golden dice, in scorn, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Because the name of gambler he had borne; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Wherefore he marked his reputation down <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As valueless despite his wide renown. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Great lords may find sufficient other play <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Seemly enough to while the time away. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Now will I speak of oaths both false and great <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A word or two, whereof the old books treat. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Great swearing is a thing abominable, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And vain oaths yet more reprehensible. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The High God did forbid swearing at all, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As witness Matthew; but in especial <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of swearing says the holy Jeremiah, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Thou shalt not swear in vain, to be a liar, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But swear in judgment and in righteousness"; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But idle swearing is a wickedness. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Behold, in the first table of the Law, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That should be honoured as High God's, sans flaw, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This second one of His commandments plain: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Thou shalt not take the Lord God's name in vain." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Nay, sooner He forbids us such swearing <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Than homicide or many a wicked thing; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I say that, as to order, thus it stands; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> 'Tis known by him who His will understands <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That the great second law of God is that. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Moreover, I will tell you full and flat, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That retribution will not quit his house <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who in his swearing is too outrageous. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "By God's own precious heart, and by His nails, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And by the blood of Christ that's now at Hales, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Seven is my chance, and yours is five and trey!" <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "By God's good arms, if you do falsely play, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This dagger through your heart I'll stick for you!" <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Such is the whelp ing of the bitched bones two: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Perjury, anger, cheating, homicide. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Now for the love of Christ, Who for us died, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Forgo this swearing oaths, both great and small; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But, sirs, now will I tell to you my tale. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Now these three roisterers, whereof I tell, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Long before prime was rung by any bell, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Were sitting in a tavern for to drink; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And as they sat they heard a small bell clink <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Before a corpse being carried to his grave; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Whereat one of them called unto his knave: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Go run," said he, "and ask them civilly <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What corpse it is that's just now passing by, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And see that you report the man's name well." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Sir," said the boy, "it needs not that they tell. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I learned it, ere you came here, full two hours; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He was, by gad, an old comrade of yours; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And he was slain, all suddenly, last night, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When drunk, as he sat on his bench upright; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> An unseen thief, called Death, came stalking by, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who hereabouts makes all the people die, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And with his spear he clove his heart in two <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And went his way and made no more ado. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He's slain a thousand with this pestilence; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And, master, ere you come in his presence, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> It seems to me to be right necessary <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To be forewarned of such an adversary: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Be ready to meet him for evermore. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> My mother taught me this, I say no more." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "By holy Mary," said the innkeeper, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "The boy speaks truth, for Death has slain, this year, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A mile or more hence, in a large village, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Both man and woman, child and hind and page. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I think his habitation must be there; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To be advised of him great wisdom 'twere, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Before he did a man some dishonour." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Yea, by God's arms!" exclaimed this roisterer, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Is it such peril, then, this Death to meet? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I'll seek him in the road and in the street, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As I now vow to God's own noble bones! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Hear, comrades, we're of one mind, as each owns; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Let each of us hold up his hand to other <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And each of us become the other's brother, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And we three will go slay this traitor Death; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He shall be slain who's stopped so many a breath, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> By God's great dignity, ere it be night." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Together did these three their pledges plight <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To live and die, each of them for the other, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As if he were his very own blood brother. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And up they started, drunken, in this rage, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And forth they went, and towards that village <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Whereof the innkeeper had told before. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And so, with many a grisly oath, they swore <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And Jesus' blessed body once more rent- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Death shall be dead if we find where he went." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When they had gone not fully half a mile, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Just as they would have trodden over a stile, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> An old man, and a poor, with them did meet. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This ancient man full meekly them did greet, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And said thus: "Now, lords, God keep you and see!' <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The one that was most insolent of these three <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Replied to him: "What? Churl of evil grace, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Why are you all wrapped up, except your face? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Why do you live so long in so great age?" <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This ancient man looked upon his visage <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And thus replied: "Because I cannot find <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A man, nay, though I walked from here to Ind, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Either in town or country who'll engage <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To give his youth in barter for my age; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And therefore must I keep my old age still, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As long a time as it shall be God's will. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Not even Death, alas! my life will take; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Thus restless I my wretched way must make, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And on the ground, which is my mother's gate, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I knock with my staff early, aye, and late, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And cry: 'O my dear mother, let me in! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Lo, how I'm wasted, flesh and blood and skin! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Alas! When shall my bones come to their rest? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Mother, with you fain would I change my chest, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That in my chamber so long time has been, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Aye! For a haircloth rag to wrap me in!' <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But yet to me she will not show that grace, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And thus all pale and withered is my face. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "But, sirs, in you it is no courtesy <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To speak to an old man despitefully, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Unless in word he trespass or in deed. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In holy writ you may, yourselves, well read <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> 'Before an old man, hoar upon the head, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You should arise.' Which I advise you read, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Nor to an old man any injury do <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> More than you would that men should do to you <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In age, if you so long time shall abide; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And God be with you, whether you walk or ride. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I must pass on now where I have to go." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Nay, ancient churl, by God it sha'n't be so," <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Cried out this other hazarder, anon; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "You sha'n't depart so easily, by Saint John! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You spoke just now of that same traitor Death, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who in this country stops our good friends' breath. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Hear my true word, since you are his own spy, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Tell where he is or you shall rue it, aye <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> By God and by the holy Sacrament! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Indeed you must be, with this Death, intent <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To slay all us young people, you false thief." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Now, sirs," said he, "if you're so keen, in brief, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To find out Death, turn up this crooked way, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For in that grove I left him, by my fay, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Under a tree, and there he will abide; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Nor for your boasts will he a moment hide. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> See you that oak? Right there you shall him find. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> God save you, Who redeemed all humankind, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And mend your ways!"- thus said this ancient man. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And every one of these three roisterers ran <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Till he came to that tree; and there they found, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of florins of fine gold, new-minted, round, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Well-nigh eight bushels full, or so they thought. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> No longer, then, after this Death they sought, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But each of them so glad was of that sight, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Because the florins were so fair and bright, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That down they all sat by this precious hoard. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The worst of them was first to speak a word. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Brothers," said he, "take heed to what I say; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> My wits are keen, although I mock and play. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This treasure here Fortune to us has given <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That mirth and jollity our lives may liven, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And easily as it's come, so will we spend. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Eh! By God's precious dignity! Who'd pretend, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Today, that we should have so fair a grace? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But might this gold be carried from this place <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Home to my house, or if you will, to yours- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For well we know that all this gold is ours- <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then were we all in high felicity. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But certainly by day this may not be; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For men would say that we were robbers strong, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And we'd, for our own treasure, hang ere long. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This treasure must be carried home by night <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> All prudently and slyly, out of sight. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So I propose that cuts among us all <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Be drawn, and let's see where the cut will fall; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And he that gets the short cut, blithe of heart <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Shall run to town at once, and to the mart, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And fetch us bread and wine here, privately. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And two of us shall guard, right cunningly, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This treasure well; and if he does not tarry, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When it is night we'll all the treasure carry <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Where, by agreement, we may think it best." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That one of them the cuts brought in his fist <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And bade them draw to see where it might fall; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And it fell on the youngest of them all; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And so, forth toward the town he went anon. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And just as soon as he had turned and gone, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That one of them spoke thus unto the other: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "You know well that you are my own sworn brother, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So to your profit I will speak anon. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You know well how our comrade is just gone; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And here is gold, and that in great plenty, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That's to be parted here among us three. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Nevertheless, if I can shape it so <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That it be parted only by us two, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Shall I not do a turn that is friendly?" <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The other said: "Well, now, how can that be? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He knows well that the gold is with us two. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What shall we say to him? What shall we do?" <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Shall it be secret?" asked the first rogue, then, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "And I will tell you in eight words, or ten, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What we must do, and how bring it about." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Agreed," replied the other, "Never doubt, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That, on my word, I nothing will betray." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Now," said the first, "we're two, and I dare say <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The two of us are stronger than is one. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Watch when he sits, and soon as that is done <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Arise and make as if with him to play; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And I will thrust him through the two sides, yea, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The while you romp with him as in a game, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And with your dagger see you do the same; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And then shall all this gold divided be, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> My right dear friend, just between you and me; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then may we both our every wish fulfill <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And play at dice all at our own sweet will." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And thus agreed were these two rogues, that day, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To slay the third, as you have heard me say. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This youngest rogue who'd gone into the town, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Often in fancy rolled he up and down <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The beauty of those florins new and bright. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "O Lord," thought he, "if so be that I might <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Have all this treasure to myself alone, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> There is no man who lives beneath the throne <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of God that should be then so merry as I." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And at the last the Fiend, our enemy, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Put in his thought that he should poison buy <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With which he might kill both his fellows; aye, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The Devil found him in such wicked state, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He had full leave his grief to consummate; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For it was utterly the man's intent <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To kill them both and never to repent. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And on he strode, no longer would he tarry, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Into the town, to an apothecary, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And prayed of him that he'd prepare and sell <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Some poison for his rats, and some as well <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For a polecat that in his yard had lain, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The which, he said, his capons there had slain, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And fain he was to rid him, if he might, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Of vermin that thus damaged him by night. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The apothecary said: "And you shall have <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> A thing of which, so God my spirit save, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In all this world there is no live creature <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That's eaten or has drunk of this mixture <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As much as equals but a grain of wheat, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That shall not sudden death thereafter meet; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Yea, die he shall, and in a shorter while <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Than you require to walk but one short mile; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This poison is so violent and strong." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This wicked man the poison took along <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With him boxed up, and then he straightway ran <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Into the street adjoining, to a man, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And of him borrowed generous bottles three; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And into two his poison then poured he; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The third one he kept clean for his own drink. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For all that night he was resolved to swink <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> In carrying the florins from that place. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And when this roisterer, with evil grace, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Had filled with wine his mighty bottles three, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then to his comrades forth again went he. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> What is the need to tell about it more? <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For just as they had planned his death before, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Just so they murdered him, and that anon. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And when the thing was done, then spoke the one: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Now let us sit and drink and so be merry, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And afterward we will his body bury." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And as he spoke, one bottle of the three <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> He took wherein the poison chanced to be <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And drank and gave his comrade drink also, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For which, and that anon, lay dead these two. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I feel quite sure that Doctor Avicena <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Within the sections of his Canon never <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Set down more certain signs of poisoning <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Than showed these wretches two at their ending. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Thus ended these two homicides in woe; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Died thus the treacherous poisoner also. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O cursed sin, full of abominableness! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O treacherous homicide! O wickedness! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O gluttony, lechery, and hazardry! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> O blasphemer of Christ with villainy, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And with great oaths, habitual for pride! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Alas! Mankind, how may this thing betide <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That to thy dear Creator, Who thee wrought, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And with His precious blood salvation bought, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Thou art so false and so unkind, alas! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Now, good men, God forgive you each trespass, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And keep you from the sin of avarice. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> My holy pardon cures and will suffice, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So that it brings me gold, or silver brings, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Or else, I care not- brooches, spoons or rings. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Bow down your heads before this holy bull! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Come up, you wives, and offer of your wool! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Your names I'll enter on my roll, anon, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And into Heaven's bliss you'll go, each one. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For I'll absolve you, by my special power, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You that make offering, as clean this hour <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As you were born. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And lo, sirs, thus I preach. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And Jesus Christ, who is our souls' great leech, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So grant you each his pardon to receive; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For that is best; I will not you deceive. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But, sirs, one word forgot I in my tale; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I've relics in my pouch that cannot fail, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> As good as England ever saw, I hope, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The which I got by kindness of the pope. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> If gifts your change of heart and mind reveal, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> You'll get my absolution while you kneel. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Come forth, and kneel down here before, anon, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And humbly you'll receive my full pardon; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Or else receive a pardon as you wend, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> All new and fresh as every mile shall end, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So that you offer me each time, anew, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> More gold and silver, all good coins and true. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> It is an honour to each one that's here <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That you may have a competent pardoner <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To give you absolution as you ride, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For all adventures that may still betide. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Perchance from horse may fall down one or two, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Breaking his neck, and it might well be you. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> See what insurance, then, it is for all <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> That I within your fellowship did fall, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Who may absolve you, both the great and less, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When soul from body passes, as I guess. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I think our host might just as well begin, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For he is most-enveloped in all sin. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Come forth, sir host, and offer first anon, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And you shall kiss the relics, every one, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Aye, for a groat! Unbuckle now your purse." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Nay, nay," said he, "then may I have Christ's curse! <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> It sha'n't be," said he, "as I've hope for riches, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Why, you would have me kissing your old breeches, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And swear they were the relics of a saint, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Though with your excrement 'twere dabbed like paint. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> By cross Saint Helen found in Holy Land, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I would I had your ballocks in my hand <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Instead of relics in a reliquary; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Let's cut them off, and them I'll help you carry; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> They shall be shrined within a hog's fat turd." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> This pardoner, he answered not a word; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So wrathy was he no word would he say. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Now," said our host, "I will no longer play <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> With you, nor any other angry man." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But at this point the worthy knight began, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When that he saw how all the folk did laugh: <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "No more of this, for it's gone far enough; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Sir pardoner, be glad and merry here; <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And you, sir host, who are to me so dear, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I pray you that you kiss the pardoner. <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And, pardoner, I pray you to draw near, <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And as we did before, let's laugh and play." <span style="font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> And then they kissed and rode forth on their way.