Sloth. So methought, by the rood!
I wist as much there was something,
By your lowering cheer and your sighing,
That was not all thing good—
But, what is the matter? I pray you, heartily!
Man. I wis thou canst not devise the remedy
With all the wit thou hast.
But this is the case, to tell it shortly:
A thing was told me as I came hereby
How Reason purveyeth fast,
And maketh very great labour and ordinance
To dash us all out of countenance;
And, for that purpose,
He hath gathered a great company.
Sloth. What to do?
Man. I wot ne'er I.
But, as I suppose,
It is to bring me in captivity;
And to take from me my liberty—
So he hath oft said.
Pride. Fear ye that matter?
Man. Nay, never a deal!
But I care for it, wit ye well,
Yet am I not afraid.
For I will withstand it proudly;
And, sirs! I trust ye will stand thereby
When it shall be need.
Pride. Yea, by the way that God went!
Or he have of you his intent
First shall I bleed
The best blood that is in this carcase.
Man. Well, Ease! go thy way hence, apace,
And make therein good speed.
Call my company all together,
And bid them every man come hither
That is with me affeed.
Sloth. Marry, sir! that shall be do. [Then he goeth out.
Man. Worship! in the meantime let us go
To see my new apparel.
Pride. Will ye so? Now, for your lady's sake,
Go do it on you; and I undertake
It shall become you well.