SWAINS

[Sing, within.]

The Wife of Bath

She’s a good fellow,

A maiden mellow

Of Aftermath.

PRIORESS

Vite, vite, ma petite.

[She hastens to the arbour, where Chaucer quickly pretends to be absorbed in writing. As she is withdrawing hastily, however, he turns round.]

Monsieur, excusez moi!