And he in derke mete

With robbours and with revers

That riche men despoilen,

Ther the messager is ay murye,

Hus mouthe ful of songes,

And leyveth for hus letters

That no wight wol hym greve.

Ac yut myghte the marchaunt

Thorgh monye and other yeftes

Have hors and hardy men,