45

'What, man,' quod our host, 'canst thou preche?

Come neer, and tell us some holy thing.'

'Sir,' quod he, 'I herde ones teche

A prest in pulpit a good preching.'

'Say on,' quod our host, 'I thee beseche.'

50

'Sir, I am redy at your bidding.

I pray you that no man me reproche

Whyl that I am my tale telling.