XXXVII
All kind of dainties and delicates sweet
Were bought for the banquet, as it was most meet;
Partridge, and plover, and venison most free,
Against the brave wedding of pretty Bessee.
XXXVIII
This marriage through England was spread by report,
So that a great number thereto did resort
Of nobles and gentles in every degree;
And all for the fame of pretty Bessee.
XXXIX
To church then went this gallant young Knight;
His bride followed after, an angel most bright,
With troops of ladies—the like ne’er was seen
As went with sweet Bessy of Bednall-green.
XL
This marriage being solemnized then,
With musick performed by the skilfullest men,
The nobles and gentles sat down at that tide,
Each one admiring the beautiful bride.
XLI
Now, after the sumptuous dinner was done,
To talk and to reason a number begun:
They talk’d of the blind beggar’s daughter most bright,
And what with his daughter he gave to the Knight.