Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1918.djvu/76

 ANONYMOUS

Wherefore all ye that present be,

/ fray you, give an ear. I am the Knight. I come by night,

As secret as I can, Saying, Alas' thus standeth the case,

I am a banished man.

She. And I your will for to fulfil

In thts will not refuse Trusting to show, in wordes few,

That men have an ill use To their own shame women to blame,

And causeless them accuse. Therefore to you I answer now,

All women to excuse Mine own heart dear, with you what cheer?

I pray you, tell anone; For, in my mind, of all mankind

I love but you alone.

He. It standeth so: a deed is do

Whereof great harm shall grow: My destiny is for to die

A shameful death, 1 trow, Or else to flee. The t' one must be:

None other way I know But to withdraw as an outlaw,

And take me to my bow. Wherefore adieu, mine own heart true!

None other rede I can: For I must to the green-wood go,

Alone, a banished man.

rede I can] counsel I know.

�� �