7
Shee sware by God & good St. John,
Lemman had shee neuer none.
8
Saies, 'Peace, ffaire mayd, you are fforsworne!
Nine children you haue borne.
9
'Three were buryed vnder thy bed's head,
Other three vnder thy brewing leade.
10
'Other three on yon play greene;
Count, maid, and there be 9.'
11
'But I hope you are the good old man
That all the world beleeues vpon.
12
'Old palmer, I pray thee,
Pennaunce that thou wilt giue to me.'
13
'Penance I can giue thee none,
But 7 yeere to be a stepping-stone.
14
'Other seaven a clapper in a bell,
Other 7 to lead an ape in hell.
15
'When thou hast thy penance done,
Then thoust come a mayden home.'