Therefore mark what I say, and my words see that ye trust,
Your hens be as good as dead, if ye leave them on the roost.
Chat. The knave dare as well go hang himself, as go upon my ground.
Diccon. Well, yet take heed, I say, I must tell you my tale round:
Have you not about your house, behind your furnace or lead,
A hole where a crafty knave may creep in for need?
Chat. Yes, by the mass, a hole broke down even within these two days.
Diccon. Hodge, he intends this same night to slip in thereaways.
Chat. O Christ, that I were sure of it! in faith, he should have his meed.[284]
Diccon. Watch well, for the knave will be there as sure as is your creed;