Page:Wife of Beith (5).pdf/2

 THE

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 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 not loath

That you go through this narrow throng,

This way is broader go with me,

And very pleasant is the way;

I'll bring thee where you would be,

Go with me friend say me not nay.

She looked on him, then did speer,

I pray you sir, what is your name?

Show me the way how came you here?

To tell it to me is no shame.