KNIGHT.
But I will. Sirrah, bailiff, I will answer
The poor men's debts, and come home to me for thy fee
Anon. Go, old men; get you home, and praise God.
ONE POOR [MAN.]
Marry, Jesus bless you. Neighbour, how many such
Good knights have you now-a-days?
ANOTHER.
Too few, neighbour; the more is the pity.
But come, lets away. [Exeunt.
KNIGHT.
But who comes here?
Enter PERIN and HONESTY.
PERIN.
God save you, gentlemen. The king greets you, and at this time
Having some occasion to use money, hath sent to know
What you that be knights and squires will lend his grace;
And you, Master Farmer: be brief, sir[s,] for I cannot stay.
KNIGHT. Sir, though housekeeping be some hind'rance to my willing mind, by reason that it robs me of that, which should bewray my loving mind both to my prince and country—money I mean, which at this time I stand in some want of—yet of that small store that I have, [I] am willing to impart the lending of the king twenty pound; and more, I assure you, I am not able.
PERIN.
Very well; and what say you, Master Squire?
SQUIRE.
I say that my revenues are but small,
Yet I will lend his majesty ten pound.
PERIN.
Very well; but what saith the Farmer?
What can he spare the king?