Page:Adam Bell, Clym of the Clough, and William of Cloudeslie (2).pdf/12

 And as they looked them beside,

A pair of new Gallows they see,

And the Justice with a guest of squires,

That judged William hang’d to be.

And Cloudeslie lay ready there in a cart,

Fast bound both foot and hand;

And a strong rope about his neck,

All ready for to hang.

The Justice called to him a lad,

Cloudeslie’s clothes he should have,

To take the measure of that yeoman,

Thereafter to make his grave.

I have seen as great mervaile, said Cloudeslie,

As between this and prime,

He that maketh a grave for me,

Himself may lie therein.

Thou speakest proudly, said the Justice,

I will thee hang with my hand;

Full well heard this his brethren two,

There still as they did stand.

Then Cloudeslie cast his eyes aside

And saw his brethren twayne,

At a corner of the market place,

Ready the Justice to slaine.

I see comfort, said Cloudeslie,

Yet hope I well to fare,

If I might have my hands at will,

Right lytle wold I care.

Then spake up then good Adam Bell,

To Clym of the Clough so free,

Brother, see you mark the Justice well,

Lo, yonder you may him see.