Why (quoth my Politique) thou shouldst have helpt it rather,
Thou shalt pay for him if thow wert my father.
The course of law in no wise must be stayde,
Least I an evill president be made.
O Sir (quoth he) I cry you mercy now,
I did mistake, your Oxe hath gorde my Cow:
Convict by reason he began to brawle,
But was content to let his action fall.
As why? (quoth he) thou lookst unto her well,
Could I prevent the mischiefe that befell?