Diccon. Yea, mary, sir, this much I can say wel, the nedle is lost.

Bayly. Nay, canst not thou tel which way that nedle may be found? 250

Diccon. No, by my fay, sir, though I might have an hundred pound.

Hodge. Thou lier, lickdish, didst not say the neele wold be gitten?

Diccon. No, Hodge, by the same token, you were[749] that time beshitten

For feare of Hobgobling—you wot wel what I meane;

As long as it is sence, I feare me yet ye be scarce cleane. 255

Bayly. Wel, Master Rat, you must both learne and teach us to forgeve.

Since Diccon hath confession made, and is so cleane shreve,

If ye to me conscent, to amend this heavie chaunce,