But she was coy, and she would not believe
That he did love her so,
No, nor at any time she would
Any countenance to him show.
III
But when his friends did understand
His fond and foolish mind,
They sent him up to fair London,
An apprentice for to bind.
IV
And when he had been seven long years,
And his love he had not seen;
‘Many a tear have I shed for her sake
When she little thought of me.’
V
All the maids of Islington
Went forth to sport and play;
All but the bailiff’s daughter dear;
She secretly stole away.
VI
She put off her gown of gray,
And put on her puggish[1300] attire;
She’s up to fair London gone,
Her true-love to require.