33 When he came mounted to the plain
He was in rich attire,
Yet when he back returnd again
He was all muck and mire.
34 A solemn vow he there did make,
Just as he came from swiming,
He'd love no lady, for her sake,
Nor any other women.
35 The baffld knight was foold once more,
You'll find by this pleasant ditty,
For she whose charms he did adore
Was wonderful sharp and witty.
36 Returning from her father's park,
Just close by a summer bower,
She chanc'd to meet her angry spark,
Who gave her a frowning lower.
37 The thoughts of what she twice had done
Did cause him to draw his rapier,
And at the lady then he run,
And thus he began to vapour:
38 'You chousd me at your father's gate,
Then tumbld me into the river;
I seek for satisfaction straight;
Shall I be a fool forever?'
39 He came with resolution bent
That evening to enjoy her,
And if she did not give consent,
That minute he would destroy her.
40 'I pray, sir knight, and why so hot
Against a young silly woman?
Such crimes as these might be forgot;
For merry intrigues are common.'
41 'What! do you count it mirth,' he cry'd,
'To tumble me in and leave me?
What if I drowned there had dy'd?
A dangerous jest, believe me.
42 'Well, if I pardon you this day
Those injuries out of measure,
It is because without delay
I mean to enjoy the pleasure.'