"I am," quod she, "a simple crëature

Sent from the court; my name is Diligence.

As sone as I might come, I you ensure,

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I taried not, after I had licence;

And now that I am come to your presence,

Look, what servyce that I can do or may,

Commaundë me; I can no further say."

I thanked her, and prayed her to come nere,

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