They judged they might the place defend,
Although five thousand men should spend
Their force thereon courageously.
The Three Porters.
Certes, cried they, but weak were we
If we should fail the fort to hold
Without this thief, this lying scold,15300
This traitor false, this felon dire,
God grant the master of hell fire
May harass and torment his soul!
On all men wrought he grief and dole.
The Author.
Though these proud words the porters sped,
Truth was it, whatsoe’er they said,
Great loss to them was Evil-Tongue.
When the Duenna had outsung
Her tale, Fair-Welcome took the word,
And spake as one who having heard15310
Discourse, knows how to gloss thereon.
Fair-Welcome.
Fair-Welcome’s reply
Madam, great honour have you done
To me in teaching me your art,
And therefor thank you from my heart,
But when you spake to me of love,
That bitter-sweet disease, above
My power it was to understand
Your meaning, but at second-hand,
