Right as thei stoden in degre, 50
So was the wrytinge of here werk.[39]
Thus I, which am a burel clerk,[40]
Purpose forto wryte a bok
After the world that whilom tok
Long tyme in olde daies passed:
Bot for men sein it is now lassed,
In worse plit than it was tho,
I thenke forto touche also
The world which neweth every dai,