Page:Wife of Beith (12).pdf/2



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: Then years were spent and days out-driven, Then suddenly she sickness takes, Deceased 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 you are 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 way is broader, go with me, And very pleasant is the way; I'll bring you there, where you would be,