(See [Chapter III.] [p. 157].)
THE NUN.
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The knotted cord, dark veil and tunic gray, I'll fling aside, and eke this scapulary, Which keeps me here a nun immured alway: And then with thee, dressed like a gallant gay, With girded loins and limber gait and free, I'll roam the world, where chance us twain may carry. I am content slave, scullion-wench to be; That will not irk me as this irketh me! |
THE LOVERS.
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Nay, get thee gone now, but so quietly, By God, so gently go, my love, That yon damned villain may hear naught thereof! He's quick of hearing: if he hears but me Turn myself round in bed, He clasps me tight for fear I may be sped. God curse whoever joined me to this hind, Or hopes in churls good merchandise to find! |
THE GIRL.
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In dole I dree the days all lonely here, A young girl by her mother shut from life, Who guardeth me with jealousy and strife: But by the cross of God I swear to her, If still she keeps me pent up thus to pine, I'll say: "Aroint thee, thou fell hag malign!" And fling yon wheel and distaff to the wall, And fly to thee, my love, who art mine all! |