Page:Wife of Beith (1).pdf/3



IN Beith once dwelt a worthy wife,

Of whom brave Chaucer mention makes,

She lived a licentious life

And namely in venereal acts.

But death did come for all her cracks,

When years were ſpent and days outdriven,

Then ſuddenly ſhe ſickneſs takes

Deceaſt forthwith, and went to heaven,

But as ſhe went upon the way,

There followed her a certain guide,

And kindly to her he did ſay

Where mean you dame for to abide?

I know thou art the wife of Beith,

And would not then that you go wrong,

For I'm your friend and will be leath,

That you go through this narrow throng,

This road is broader, go with me,

And very pleaſant is the way;

I'll bring you there where you would be,

Go with me friend, ſay me not nay.

She looked on him and then did ſpeer,

I pray you Sir, what is your name?

Show me the way how you came here,

To tell to me it it is no ſhame,

Is that a favour about your neck;

And what is that upon your ſide;

Is it a bag or ſilver ſack?

What are you then? Where do you bide?