XXXVIII
‘Yes, that I do, madam,’ he said,
‘I know that lord, yea, verilye;
The Lord of Lorn is a worthy lord,
If he were at home in his own countrye.’—
XXXIX
‘Wilt leave thy sheep, thou bonny child,
And come in service unto me?’—
‘[I thank you, madam]; yea, forsooth,
And at your bidding I will be.’
XL
When the steward look’d upon the child
He ’gan bewrail[473] him villainouslye:
‘Where wast thou born, thou vagabone?
Thou art a thief, I will prove thee.’
XLI
‘Ha’ done! ha’ done!’ said the lady gay,
‘Peace, Lord of Lorn, I do pray thee!
Without you bear him more good will,
No favour will you get of me.’
XLII
O then bespake the false steward,
‘Believe me or no, I tell to thee,
At Aberdonie, beyond the seas,
His father robbèd thousands three.’