That al to lene is mannes facultee
To déclare it, and therfor in suspence
410
Her duë preysing put mot nedes be.
But this we witen verrayly, that she,
Next god, the best frend is that to man longeth;
The key of mercy by her girdil hongeth.
And of mercy hath every man swich nede
415
That, cessing that, farwel the joye of man!