|
This worthy clerk, whan ended was his tale, |
| Oure hoost seyde, and swoor: "By goddes bones, |
| 1215 | Me were levere than a barel ale |
| "Me wyf at hoom had herd this legende ones; |
| This is a gentil tale for the nones, |
| As to my purpos, wiste ye my wille,- |
| But thyng that wol nat be, lat it be stille." |
|
|
This noble clerk, when his tale was ended |
| Our host said and pledged on God's bones |
| 1215 | "I would rather than have a barrel of ale |
| My wife at home had once heard this tale |
| This is a fine tale for the occasion |
| For my purposes if you knew my will |
| But thing that will not be, let it be still." |
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