and when I consider how unable I am to succour thee, my only child, this it is that vexeth me day and night, and those familiars that I spent my goods on, now slight me and refrain my company. To this Fortunatus answered, beloved father, do not take such immoderate care for me, I am young and strong, I will travel, into far countries and try my fortune; I hope in God, I shall be preferred; I have not been so badly brought up, but I can shift for myself. Upon this, Fortunatus went from his father’s house with a hawk on his fist, travelling towards the sea side, pondering with himself, that being absent from his father’s sight, he might not be grieved thereby; and as he walked by the sea side, he espied a galley of Venice, wherein was an Earl of Flanders, who had lost two of his men, wishing within himself that he could be entertained in the Earl’s service, that he might be rid of the country of Cyprus; with that he stept forth, and making a low obedience to the Earl, he said, I understand most noble Lord, you have lost two of your men, therefore I desire (if you please) to be
