And thogh that it be lich a fable,[1283]
Thensample is good and resonable.(3750*)
[The Mountain and the Mouse.]
As it be olde daies fell,
I rede whilom that an hell
Hic loquitur secundum Philosophum, dicens quod sicut non decet Principes tirannica impetuositate esse crudeles, ita nec decet timorosa pusillanimitate esse vecordes.
Up in the londes of Archade
A wonder dredful noise made;[1284]
For so it fell that ilke day,
This hell on his childinge lay,