fleet > float, drift

4 In the wide sea, they needs must pass by,

needs > of necessity

5 Which seemed so sweet and pleasant to the eye 6 That it would tempt a man to touch there:

touch > land, visit

7 Upon the bank they sitting did espy

bank > shore

8 A dainty damsel, dressing her hair, 9 By whom a little skippet floating did appear.

skippet > skiff, small boat (see 206.2-5)

212.15