Yit the symplesse of my poverte

Desireth forto do plesance

To hem undir whos governance

I hope siker to abide.

[Farewell to Earthly Love.]

But now uppon my laste tide

That y this book have maad and write,

My muse doth me forto wite, 3140

And seith it schal be for my beste

Fro this day forth to take reste,