72.

“What meryte they, whom me[1454], the kingdome’s stay,

Contryued haue counsayle traiterously to slay?”

Abashed all sate: I thought I mought[1455] be bold,

For conscience, clearnesse, and acquaintance old:

“Their hire is playne,” quoth I, “be death the least

To whoso seketh your grace so to molest:”

Withouten stay: “The queene and the whore Shore’s wyfe,

By witchcraft,” quoth he, “seke to wast my life.

73.