Tale First.
There were two men of Gotham, and one of them was going to the market at Nottingham to buy sheep, and the other was coming from the market, and both met together on Nottingham bridge.
“Well met,” said the one to the other.
“Whither are you a-going?” said he that came from Nottingham.
“Marry,” said he that was going thither, “I am going to the market to buy sheep.”
“Buy sheep,” said the other; “and which way will you bring them home?”
“Marry,” said the other, “I will bring them over this bridge.”
“By Robin Hood,” said he that came from Nottingham, “but thou shalt not.”
“By maid Marjoram,” said he that was going thither, “but I will.”