[6.]In elder times an ancient custome was
To sweare in weighty matters by the Masse.
But when the Masse went downe (as old men note)
They sware then by the Crosse of this same grote.[42]
But when the Crosse was likewise held in scorne,
Then by their faith, the common oth was sworne.
Last, having sworne away all faith and troth,
Only God damn them is the common oth.
Thus custome kept decorum by gradation,
That losing Masse, Crosse, Faith, they find damnation.