202 Ballads, etc. With that the Lord Courtney stood in his defence, And so did his servants, but, ere they went hence. Two of the true men were slain in this fight. And four of the thieves were put to the flight. And while for their safeguard they run thus away, The jolly bold Cripple did hold them in play. And with his pike-staff he wounded them so, As they were unable to run or to go. With fighting the Lord Courtney was out of breath, And most of his servants were wounded to death, Then came other horsemen riding so fast. The Cripple was forced to fly at the last. And over a river that run there beside. Which was very deep, and eighteen foot wide, With his long staff and his stilts leaped he. And shifted himself in an old hollow tree ; Then throughout the city was hue and cry made. To have these thieves apprehended and staid ; The Cripple he creeps on his hands and his knees, And in the high-way great passing he sees. And as they came riding he begging doth say, O give me one penny, good masters, I pray. And thus unto Exeter creeps he along. No man suspecting that be had done wrong. Anon the Lord Courtney he spies in the street, He comes unto him and kisses his feet, God save your honor and keep you from ill. And from the hands of 3'our enemies still.
