Chaucer's GHOST: Or, A Piece of ANTIQUITY.  
Containing twelve pleasant Fables of Ovid penned after the ancient manner of writing in England.  
Which makes them prove Mock-Poems to the present Poetry.  
With the History of Prince Corniger, and his Champion Sir Crucifrag, that run a tilt likewise at the present Historiographers.  
By a Lover of Antiquity.  Multa renascentur quae jam cecidere, etc. Hor 
London, Printed by T. Ratcliff, & N. Thompson for Richard Mills, at the Pestle and Mortar without Temple-bar, 1672.   

TO THE Readers.  
NEw Books & Pamphlets, Sirs, now adays thrust so fast out of the Press, that they will not give the Readers time to breath; this was the misery of juvenal's time, and I may cry as he did, Semper ego auditor tantum? But yet there is one Remedy, periturae non parcere chartae. Yet what shall be the Subject? Novelty. No. Hang it, then must it be laughed at and jeered in every Coffee-house, and be subject to the Old men's Tobacco-pipes to bring them fire. But Coffeehouses are going down, you l say: Faith that's one comfort; for I heard such damning of a Pamphlet there once, that I thought they had sat on the Life and Death of the Author: Besides, I know some persons hate new Fashions, as much as an old Don in the University, hates Burgerdicius Logic; because he was taught in sanderson's.  
Shall the Matter be old then as the Praeadamites? No, that's foolish too— O Gramercy mine old great Granfader, now me seemeth to think on his wholesome Saw▪ 
In the mid way  
'tis zafe to play.   
So then I must write what's neither new nor old; in a Dialect that is both daubed over with Novelty, and hath Antiquity for its ground. Have at 'em then, and let any Novice say what he will; since there is a Temple built to Antiquity, what ever the World may say of my Superstition, I am resolved to fix this Tablet there.  
Farewell.   

Upon the Authors Piece of Anniquity, by his Friend.  
NEw Pamphlets every day, new Book's the cry:  
The reason (since they are so common) why?  
Can that be new whose likeness every day  
Appears in the same mode? for shame away.  
If this be news, than Pie at Christmas is,  
And Pancakes on Shrove-Tuseday are novelties.  
But here's a Piece; come quick, before 'tis sold.  
'Tis truly new: for why? because 'tis old.   


Argument I.  
HOw Pygmalion fell in Love with the Image he made.  
Pygmalion niveum mira feliciter arte  
Sculpsit ebur, formamque dedit, qua foemina nasci  
Nulla potest, operisque sui concepit amorem.  Ovid. l. x.  

Argument II.  
How Diana turned Actaeon into a Hart, and how he was devoured by his own Dogs.  
— alienae cornua fronti  
Addita, vosque canes satiati sanguine herili.  Ovid. l. 3.  

Arg. III.  
How jupiter and juno fell at odds concerning Love, and how they chose Tiresias for their Judge, etc.  
Placuit, quae sit sententia docti  
Quaerere Tiresiae. Venus' huic erat utraque utraque nota.  Ovid. l. 3.  

Arg. IU.  
Of the Love of Apollo toward Coronis; and how the white Bird for discovering it was turned into a black Raven.  
Pulchrior in tota, quam Latissaea Coronis,  
Non fuit Amonia; placuit tibi Delphia certè  
Dum vel casta fuit vel inobservata: sed ales  
Sensit adulterium Phoebius, etc.  Ovid. l. 2.  

Arg. V.  
How the Giant Polyphemus loved the Nymph Galatea.  
Nec si qu●sieris odium Cyclopis amorne  
Acidis in nobis fucrit praestantior edam.  Ovid. l. xiij.  

Arg. VI  
The Battle between Hercules and Achelous for the Love of Deianira.  
Accipe me generum dixi Parthane nate,  
Dixit & Alcides, etc.  Ovid. l. ix.  

Arg. VII.  
Mars and Venus caught together, and chained by Vulcan.  
Vt Venere tocum conjux & adulter in unum,  
Arte viri, vinclisque nova ratione paratis  
In mediis ambo deprens● amplexibus haerent.  Ovid. l. iv.  

Arg. VIII.  
How jupiter ravished Io; and how she was transformed into a Cow, and how Mercury slew her Keeper Argus.  
Conjugis adventum praesenserat, inque nitentem  
Inachidos vultus mutaverat ille juvencam.  Ovid. l. i.  

Arg. IX.  
Leucothea ravished by Phoebus.  
Victa nitore dei pofitâ vim passa querela est.  Ovid. l. iv.  

Arg. X.  
Calisto deflowered by jupiter.  
Dum redit itque frequens in virgine Nonacrinâ.  
Haesit, etc.  Ovid. l. two.  

Arg. XI.  
Of the great patience of the Philosopher Socrates, and how his Wife threw a pot full of water upon his head.  Diog. Laert.  

Arg. XII.  
Of the excellent Harper Arion.  
Carmine vocali sylvas animosque ferarum  
Threicius votes, & saxa sequentia traxit.  Ovid. l. xi. 
This you shall find in the following History of Prince Corniger and his Champion.    

Chaucer's Ghost OR, A Piece of Antiquity.  

Argument I.  
Pygmalion niveum mira feliciter arte  
Sculpsit ebur, formamque dedit, qua faemina nasci  
Nulla potest, operesque sui concepit amorem.  Ovid. l. x. 

I Find that heretofore was one,  
whose name it was Pygmalion,  
which was a lusty man of youth,  
and at fine warks was very couth  
above all other men, as tho,  
and through fortune it fell him so.  
As he that doth in Love travail,  
he made an Image of entail;  
like to a Woman in semblance  
of feature and of countenance.  
So fair, yet never was Figure,  
right as a living creature  
she seemed, for of Ivory white  
he hath it wrote of such delight.  
She was ruddy on the Cheke,  
and red on her Lips eke,  
whereof then he himself beguiled,  
for with a goodly look she smiled;  
so that through pure impression  
of his own imagination,  
with all the he at of his courage  
his love upon this fair Image  
he set: and her of love prayed,  
but she not one word again said.  
All the long day what thing he did,  
this fair Image in the same stead  
was ever by, so that at meat  
he would her serve, and prayed her eat,  
and put unto her mouth the cup:  
and when the board was taken up,  
he led her to his chamber home,  
and after when the night was come,  
he laid her in bed all naked,  
he often wept and often waked.  
He kissed her cold lips oft and oft,  
and wished her that they were more soft;  
and oft he told her in her ear,  
and oft his arm now here now there  
he laid as he would her embrace;  
and ever and anon he asked grace,  
as though she wist what it meant,  
and himself began to torment.  
But Venus of her grace him heard  
by night, and when that least he feared,  
and it lay naked in his arm,  
the cold Image began be warm  
of flesh and bone, and full of life;  
lo thus he won a lusty Wife,  
which obeisant was at his will,  
and of his pleasure gave him fill.  
But if he would have help him still,  
he should have failed of his will;  
but 'cause he prayed, his love he sped,  
and had all that he would a-bed;  
for e'er away they two did go,  
a jolly child between them two  
they gate: Thus Love is favourable  
to them that have been of Love stable.    

Argument. 2.  
alienae cornua fronti  
Addita, vosque canes satiati sanguine herili.  Ovid. l. 3. 

OVid in his book he spakes  
examples touchen bad mistakes,  
and saith, how whilom there was one  
a worthy Lord, which Actaeon  
was called, and he was Cousin nigh  
to him that Thebes first on high  
up set. Actaeon 'bove all cheer  
had used it form year to year,  
with Hounds and with great Horns  
amongst the Woods and the Thorns,  
to make his Hunting and his Chase,  
where he best thought in every place,  
to find out Game in a fair way,  
there road he for to hunt and play.  
So him befell upon a tide,  
on his hunting as he did ride,  
in a Forest alone he was,  
and saw there upon the green grass  
the fair flowers fresh to spring,  
he heard amongst the leaves to sing  
the Throstel with the Nightingale.  
Thus (ere he wist) into a Dale  
he came, and in a Plain he lit  
all round about which was beset  
with bushes green, and cedars high,  
and there within he cast his eye;  
amidst the Plain he saw a Well  
so fair, that there may no man tell.  
In which Diana naked stood  
to bathe and play her in the Flood,  
with many Nymphs which there her served:  
but he his eye away ne'er swerved  
from her that was naked and tall;  
but she was wondrous wrath withal,  
and him (as she which was Goddess)  
for's hope, anon gave him likeness  
of Beasts, and made him be a Hart,  
which was before his Dogs to start.  
Then ran he busily about  
with many a horn, and many a rout,  
that made moche noise and piteous cry;  
and at the last unhappily  
this Hart his own Hounds grimly slew,  
and to pieces mischievously him drew.  
Lo now my Son, what it is  
a man to cast his eye amiss.    

Arg. 3.  
Placuit, quae sit sententia docti  
Quaerere Tiresiae. Venus' huic erat utraque utraque nota.  Ovid. l. 3. 

TRuth 'tis that good ne'er came of strife,  
to seek it in all a man's life,  
though it begin upon pure game,  
full oft it turneth into bane,  
and doth grievance on some side,  
whereof the great Clerk Ovide,  
after this manner, as I trow,  
of jupiter and's Wife juno,  
makes in his books mention  
how they fell at dissension  
amongst themselves in unity,  
and that was upon this degree;  
which of the two more amorous is,  
or man or wife; and upon this  
they might no ways accord in one,  
and took one to judge thereupon,  
which called is Tiresias  
and bid him deem just in this case;  
and he without any avisement  
against juno gave his judgement.  
This Goddess upon his answer  
was wroth, and would not forbear,  
but took away for evermo  
the light from both his eyes two.  
When Jupiter this hurt had seen,  
another benefit then again  
he gave, and such a grace him doth,  
that what he wist he said sooth,  
a soothsayer he was for ever;  
but yet that other had lever  
have had the looking of his eye,  
then of his word the Prophecy.    

Arg. IU.  
Pulchrior in tota, quam Larissaea Coronis,  
Non fuit Amonia; placuit tibi Delphia certè,  
Dum vel casta fuit vel inobservata: sed ales  
Sensit adulterium Phoebius, etc.  Ovid. l. 2. 

NOw take a Tale into thy mind,  
the which of old ensample I find.  
Phoebus, which maketh the days light,  
a Love he had a handsome W●ite  
Coronis, whom aboven all  
he pleased, but what shall befall  
of Love, there is no man knoweth;  
but as Fortune her haps throweth.  
So it befell upon a chance,  
a young Knight took her acquaintance,  
and had of her all that he would,  
but a false Bird that was too bold;  
though kept in Chamber from pure youth,  
discovered all that e'er he couth:  
the Bird's name was amongst men  
Corvus; and the Bird was then  
well more white than any Swan:  
and he did tell all that he can,  
and all her thefts to Phoebus said.  
But he for wrath his Sword out-braid,  
and it to Coronis did show,  
but after that there was much woe;  
and she took full great repentance,  
whereof in token and remembrance  
of him which used wicked speech,  
upon this Bird he took his wrech,  
that he which was snow-white before,  
was afterwards coal-black therefore  
transformed; thus his deeds he showeth,  
and many a man yet him beshreweth;  
and calleth him unto this day  
a Raven, by whom yet men say  
take evidence when that he crieth,  
that some mishap it signifieth.    

Arg. 5.  
Nec si quaesieris odium Cyclopis amorne  
Acidis in nobis fucrit praestantior edam.  Ovid. l. xiij. 

GReat Polyphemus long since thought,  
when that he Galate had besought  
of Love, which he might not latch  
that made him for to wait and watch  
by all ways how she fared,  
till at last he knew and heard,  
how that another had leave  
to love the Nymph, which did him grieve;  
so that he knaw none other read,  
as for to speak of any speed,  
but for to watch and wait on all,  
till he may see the chance befall,  
that he her Love might grieve,  
which he himself might not achieve.  
This Galatea, saith the Poet,  
above all others was most meet  
of beauty, which then all men knew,  
and had a lusty Love and true,  
a Bachelor in high degree,  
right such another as was she,  
on which her heart was so fast set,  
so that it might by naught be let.  
This Knight Acis was very hot,  
and she againward also hot  
him loved only, and no more;  
hereof was Polyphemus wo.  
Through pure envy and ever spied,  
and waited upon every side,  
when he together might them see,  
this young Acis with Galate.  
So long he waited to and fro,  
till at the last he found them two  
in privy place whereas they stood  
to speak, and have her words made good:  
The place wherein he them did spy,  
it was under a bank, nigh  
the great Sea, and he above  
stood and beheld the lusty Love  
which each of them to other made  
with goodly cheer, and words full glade.  
So all his heart was set on fire  
by pure envy and deadly ire;  
and then he flew away, I trow,  
as arrow flieth out of bow;  
as though he were for Love start mad,  
when as he saw this sight so sad.  
This Polypheme a giant was,  
and when he saw the sooth o'th' cas  
how Galate him did forsake,  
and Acis to her Love did take;  
his heart no longer might forbear,  
but he roared out like any bear,  
and ran Aetna the hill about,  
where never yet the fire was out,  
full filled with sorrow and disease,  
'cause he saw Acis weil at ease;  
till at the last he him bethought,  
as he which all by envy sought,  
and turned to the bank again;  
where he with Galate had seen  
young Acis, whom he thought to grieve,  
though he himself might not relieve.  
This giant then with his rude might  
part of the bank did throw outright;  
the which fell just on Acis pate,  
and knocked him down (for 'twas his fate)  
Thus Polypheme did Acis slay,  
but Galate did run away;  
and as she fled along the Land,  
Neptune took her by the hand,  
and kept her in so fast a place  
from Polypheme and his menace;  
that he for all his false envy  
might ne'er enjoy her company.    

Arg. 6.  
Accipe me generum dixi Parthaone nate,  
Dixit & Alcides, etc.  Ovid. l. ix. 

OEneus had Calydons Empire,  
and had a Daughter Deianyre,  
and all men wist that there was none  
so fair a Wight as she was one;  
and as she was a lusty Wight,  
right so was then a noble Knight,  
to whom Mercury fader was,  
which set up two pillars of brass,  
the which as yet a man may find,  
set up in the Desert of Ind;  
this was the worthy Hercules,  
whose name shall be endless  
for all the marvails that he wrought.  
This Hercules the Love besought  
of Deianeira, and of this thing  
unto her fader which was King  
he spoke, touching of Marriage.  
The King knowing his high lineage,  
and dreadding all his deeds mighty,  
ne'er durst his Daughter to deny.  
Yet netheless this he him said,  
how Achilous', ere he, first prayed  
to wed her: and in that accord  
they stood as it were on record:  
but for all that this he him granted,  
that which of them the other daunted  
in arms, his Daughter him should take,  
and do what she would for his sake.  
This Achelous was a Giant,  
a subtle man and a deceyvant;  
who through Magic and Sorcery  
could all the world out-treachery.  
And when that he this Tale heard  
upon what score the King answered  
to Hercules, that he must fight,  
he trusted much upon his slight:  
And Love that every heart doth steer,  
made him his life not to forbear;  
for his Lady whom he desired,  
but with courage his heart it fired:  
And so he sent word without fail,  
that he would enter the Battle.  
At the set day and chosen field,  
the Knights both covered under shield,  
together came at the time set,  
and each one is with other met.  
It fell that they fought both on foot,  
there was no stone, there was no root  
which might let them in their way,  
but all was void and ta'en away.  
Truth, they smite strokes but very few.  
for Hercules who then would show  
his great strength, as for the nonce  
he starts upon him all at once,  
and caught him in his arms so strong:  
the Giant wot he could not long  
endure under so hard a bond;  
then by some slight for to escape,  
as he himself could best mishap,  
in likeness of a snake he skipped  
out of his hand, and forth he leapt;  
and oft as he that fight will,  
he turned himself into a Bull,  
and began to bellow in such a sound,  
as though the skies would fall to ground.  
The earth he spurns, and then he pranceth,  
and his broad Horns he then advanceth,  
and cast them here and there about.  
But he who made of him no doubt,  
awaited well, and when he came  
by both his Horns he did him tame,  
and all at once he did him cast  
unto the ground, and held him fast,  
that he ne'er might by any slight  
out of his hands get up on height,  
till he was overcome, and told  
that Hercules might what he would.  
The King then granted to fulfil  
his askings 'cording to his will;  
and he that had with danger served,  
did think he had her well deserved:  
and thus with great desert of Arms,  
he won her for to lig in arms,  
as he which had it dearly bought,  
and otherwise he should not.    

Argument. 7.  
Vt Venere locum conjux & adulter in unum,  
Arte viri, vinclisque nova ratione paratis,  
In mediss ambo deprensi amplexibus haerent.  Ovid. l. iv. 

UPon a certain case of Love  
amongst the gods that dwell above,  
upon a time it fell out thus.  
The god of fire which Vulcanus  
is hot, and hath a craft forthwith  
assigned for to be a Smith  
to jupiter, to forge his Thunder,  
at which all mortal men do wonder.  
This Vulcan●● in the figure  
both of visage and of stature,  
is loathly and malgracious,  
but yet he hath within his house,  
as for the liking of his life,  
the fair Venus to be his Wife.  
But Mars that of all Battles is  
the god, an eye had unto this;  
and he which was so chivalrous,  
it fell him to be amorous;  
and thought it was great pity  
to see so fair a one as she  
be coupled with so foul a Wight:  
and she that had so good insight  
toward so noble a Knightly Lord,  
fell in Love with his accord.  
There lacked nought but time & place  
for him for to enjoy her Grace.  
But when two hearts fall into one,  
so wise a wait was never none;  
but at some time they two will meet:  
and thus this Lady fair and sweet  
with Mars had often company;  
till at last unkind jealousy,  
which evermore the heart opposeth,  
maketh Vulcan that he supposeth,  
that it is not well over all,  
and to himself he said, he shall  
espy better, if that he may;  
and so it fell upon a day,  
that he this thing so slightly led,  
that he did find them both a bed,  
all warm each one with other naked,  
and he with craft had ready maked  
strong chains, and therewithal them bound,  
as he together had them found;  
and then he left them lying so,  
and began to call and cry, ho, ho,  
unto the gods that lived about,  
and they assembled in a rout;  
and came the matter for to see,  
but none amend at all had he,  
but was rebuked here and there  
of all that Venus Lovers were.  
Who said that he was for to blame,  
if there befell him any shame,  
it was through his misgovernance,  
and thus he lost his countenance.  
Then they them loosed from the bands,  
whereof these earthly hunbands  
for ever may ensample take,  
I such a chance them overtake.    

Arg. 8.  
Conjugis adventum praesenserat, inque nitentem  
Inachidos vultus mutaverat ille juvencam.  Ovid. l. i. 

OVid telleth in his Saws,  
how jupiter in ancient days  
lay by a Maid, which Io  
was called, whereof's Wife juno  
was wroth; and as she was Goddess,  
of Io turned the likeness  
into a Cow, to go throughout  
the fields and pastures thereabout,  
and get her meat upon the Green;  
and thereupon the lofty Queen  
betook her Argus for to keep;  
for he was seldom wont to sleep,  
because he had an hundred eyes,  
all were alive, and all-were spies.  
Now harken how he was beguiled  
by Mercury, who was affiled  
this Cow to steal; he came disguised,  
and had a Pipe full well devised  
of Music, and thus to the field  
he came, where Argus he beheld  
with Io, which beside him went.  
With that anon his Pipe he bend,  
and began to pipe in such manner,  
things which were sleepy for to hear;  
and in his piping ever among  
he sang him such a lulling Song,  
that he the Giant brought asleep,  
and there was no eye that might keep  
his head, which Mercury off smote,  
and so away the Cow he got;  
the Cow, I say, which Argus kept;  
and all this fell for that he slept.    

Arg. 9  
Victa nitore dei positâ vim passa querela est.  Ovid. l. iv. 

Venus' which hath the Law in hand,  
of that which we cannot withstand,  
as she who doth the treasure guard  
of Love, and hath it in her ward;  
Phoebus to Love hath so constrained,  
that without rest he's sorely pained,  
with all his watchfulness to wait  
to find the Damsels guards less straight,  
who was in chamber kept so close,  
that she ne'er did herself disclose,  
but with her mother for to play,  
Leucothea (so as men say)  
this Maid was fair, and Orchamus  
her Fader was; but it fell thus  
to's Daughter, that was kept so dear,  
and had been so from year to year,  
under her Mother's Discipline  
a clean Maid and a fair Virgin:  
Upon the whose Nativity  
of comeliness and of beauty,  
Nature had set all that she may;  
that like unto the Month of May,  
which all the other Months o'th' year  
surmounteth: So without her peer,  
was of this Maiden the feature;  
whereof Phoebus without measure  
her loved, and on every side  
awaited, if so may betid,  
that he through any slight might  
her lusty Maidenhead unright,  
esteemed above all the world's wealth.  
And thus lurking upon stealth,  
in his await so long he lay;  
till it befell upon a day,  
that he throughout the Chamber wall  
came in all suddenly, and stall  
that thing that was to him so chief,  
But woe the while he was a thief.  
And Venus who was Enemy  
of such Love-treachery,  
discovered all the plain case  
to Clymene, who then was  
towards Phoebus his Concubine;  
and when she found the cause in fine  
of all the case, than she was wroth,  
and for to plague the Maid she goeth,  
and told her Father how it stood,  
who was for sorrow well nigh wood.  
And to her Mother thus he said,  
Lo what it is to keep a Maid.  
To Phoebus dare I nothing speak,  
but unto her it shall be wreak.  
So that all Maidens after this  
now take ensample, what it is  
to suffer Maidenhead be lost,  
for fear it should their death them cost,  
and bad with that to make a pit,  
wherein he hath his Daughter set,  
as he that would no pity have,  
so that she was all quick in Grave,  
and died anon in his presence.  
But Phoebus who had reverence  
to her that died for his Love,  
hath wrought through his power above,  
that she spring up out of the mould,  
into a flower as bright as Gold.    

Arg. 10.  
Dum redit itque frequens in virgine No●a. cri●â.  
Haesit, etc.  Ovid. l. two. 

KIng Cithaeron upon his Wife  
a Daughter had, a goodly life,  
and clean Maiden of goodly fame,  
and Calisto was her right name  
called, and she by many a Lord  
was oft besought, but her accord  
to Love might no man win,  
as she which had no lust therein;  
but swore within her heart, and said,  
she would for ever be a Maid.  
Wherefore to keep herself in peace  
with the Nymphs Amadriades,  
upon the Springs and the fresh Wells,  
she hopes to dwell, and no where else:  
and thus came this Calistona  
into the Wood of Tegea,  
and thus she came within the sight  
of Diana, and there she plight  
her troth upon the Woods so green,  
to preserve her Maidenhead clean,  
which afterwards upon a day  
was privily stolen away.  
For jupiter through his quaintise  
from her it took in such a wise,  
that suddenly, and forth withal  
her womb arose, and she did swall;  
so than she could no longer hide,  
and thereupon it did betid,  
that Diana (the sooth to tell)  
in privy place unto a Well,  
with Nymphs all in her company  
was gone, and out of waggery  
she said, that she bathe would,  
and bad that every Maiden should  
with her all naked bathe also,  
and then began the privy wo.  
And Calisto was red for shame;  
but they that never knew the game,  
to whom no such thing did befall,  
anon they made them naked all,  
because that nothing they would hide;  
but she withdrew her ever aside;  
and netheless into the Flood,  
whereas Diana herself stood,  
she thought for to come unperceived,  
but thereof she was all deceived;  
for when she came a little nigh,  
and Diana her Womb did spy,  
she said, away O thou foul Beast,  
for thy estate is not honest;  
nor may'st thou this chaste water touch,  
for thou hast ta'en a touch too much,  
which never may be whole again.  
And thus she goes which was forlain  
with shame, and fled away that day  
from all the Nymphs, for ever and ay.    

Arg. 11.  
How Socrates Wife threw a Pot of Water upon his Head, and of his patience.  

MY son a man to buy him peace▪  
behoves to suffer as Socrates;  
for amongst men 'tis evident,  
that he was very patient;  
for he wedded a wicked Wife,  
who gave him much sorrow and strife:  
against his ease it was contraire,  
but he spoke ever soft and fair;  
till it befell, (as it is told)  
in Winter when the day is cold,  
that his wife was from the Well come,  
with a full pot of water home:  
and so she brought it in the house,  
and saw how that her quiet spouse  
was set, and looked on a Book  
nigh to the fire, as he who took  
his ease, as for a man of age;  
but she began her wont rage,  
and asked him what devil he thought,  
that he so near the fire him brought:  
when as she labour took in hand,  
and said that such an Husband  
was to a Wife not worth a stre,  
but he said neither nay nor ye;  
but held him still, and let her chide.  
But she which may herself not hide,  
began within forthwith to swell,  
and that she brought in from the Well,  
the waterpot she put aloft,  
and bade him speak; but he all soft  
sat still, and not a word answered,  
with that she asked him how he fared;  
and asked him if he be dead?  
and all the water on his head  
she poured out, and bade him wake▪  
But he which never would forsake  
his patience, did softly spoke,  
that he ne wondered what was done,  
for now the winter was begun,  
and winter as by way of kind,  
which stormy is, as men it find,  
first maketh the winds for to blow,  
and after that within a throw  
it reins, which reason's well beseen,  
to cause me now both wound and rain  
after the season of the year;  
and then he set him near the fire.     

The Pleasant History of Prince CORNIGER, and his Champion Sir CRUCIFRAG.  
SO it befell upon a time after the Death of King Mort, who was wounded in battle by his Enemies, that he died; when all his good Knights and Barons, passing stout men of bodies were gedred together in their their Castle, to make a Counsaile-general and a great Justs, after they were come thither, and lodged as them seemed best, there came a Damesel which was sent on a message from the great Lady of the Isle of Witch; and when she came before them, she let her mantle fall that was very richly furnished, and then was she girded with a noble Sword, whereof the Knights had great marvel, and said, Damesel, for what cause are you girded with this Sword? it beseemeth you not. This Sword, said the Damesel, that I am girded withal, doth me great sorrow and encumbrance: for I may not be delivered of this Sword, but by a good Knight, and he must be a passing brave man of his hands, and of his deeds, and without villainy and treachery: For I have been with King Palliobarb, 'cause it was told me that there were passing good Knights with him, but none of them can speed. Then they all pulled at it eagerly, but the Sword would not out. Sirs, said the Damesel, ye need not pull half so hard, for he that shall pull it out, shall do it with little might, and he must be a clean Knight, of gentle stream both of fader and mothers side.  
Now it happened so at that time, that there was a poor Knight, which had been prisoner with King Mort half a year, for slaying of a Knight that was his Cousin; this Knight was named Corniger, ('cause his Crest was a pair of Horns) and by the good means of the Barons he was delivered out of Prison after the King's Death; for he was a passing good Knight. So he went privily to the Castle, and saw this adventure, whereof his heart rose, and would assail it as other Knights did; but for because he was poorly arrayed, they put him not far in price. Netheless he called the Damesel, and said, I pray you of Courtesy to suffer me as well to assay as these Lords; though I be poor clothed, in my heart me seemeth I am fully assured to speed right well. The Damesel beheld the Knight, but for because of his poor array she thought he should be of no worship without villainy or treachery. Ah fair Damesel, said Sir Corniger, worthiness and good deeds are not all only in raiment, but manhood, and worship, and hardiness is not in clothing. In sooth, said the Damesel, you say true, therefore you shall assay to do what you will; then he took the Sword by the Girdle and Scabbard, and drew it out easily▪ and when he looked upon the Sword, it pleased him moche. Then the Barons had great marvel that Sir Corniger had done the adventure. Truly, said the Damesel, this is a passing good Knight, and the best man that ever I found, and most of worship without treachery and villainy; and many mervails shall he achieve. Wherefore all the Knights and Barons cried all at once, We will have Sir Corniger unto our King: for we all see that it is Goodness will that he should be our King, and who so holdeth against it, we will ●lee him. And thereupon they kneeled down all at once both rich and poor, and cried Prince Corniger mercy, because he had been imprisoned; and Prince Corniger forgave it them: And so anon there was Coronation made, and there was he sworn to the Lords and Commons for to be a true King, to stand with true Justice from henceforth all the days of his life. So he became their King, and let cry a great Feast.  
But many Complaints were made unto Prince Corniger of great wrongs that were done by their Enemies, sithen the Death of King Mort, of many Londs that were bereft of their Lords, Knights, Ladies, and Gentlemen; wherefore the King came out of his Tower to the Ambassadors, and there went with him Sir Cruel, Sir Razor, and Sir Kilman; these were the men of most worship that were with him. And when they met together, there was but little meekness; for there was stout and hard words on both sides, but always Prince Corniger answered them, He would make them blow if he lived: wherefore they departed with wrath; and Prince Corniger bid them keep them well, and they bid Prince Corniger keep him well. So the Prince returned to his Castle, and armed him and all his Knights; in the mean while there were three hundred good men of the best that went straight to Prince Corniger, and that comforted him greatly. And Sir Cruel, Sir Razor, and Sir Kilman slew on the right hand and on the left, and did marvelous deeds of Arms, that the King had great joy of their deeds and hardiness, But the Enemies came on afresh behind them, and perplexed Prince Cornigers Knights; wherefore Prince Corniger drew his Sword which was so bright in his Enemy's eyes, that it gave light like thirty Torches, and therewith he put them back, and slew much people.  
So in little space the Enemy fled, and Prince Corniger returned to his Castle; where he found a passing fair fellowship, and well beseen, whereof he had great joy, and victuals they wanted none.  
Next day Prince Corniger with his good and trusty Knights set upon his Enemies so fiercely, that they overthrew their Pavilions on their heads, but by manly Prowess of Arms they were forced to take a fair field; and when it grew towards day, Sir Fierce smote down Horse and Man, and Sir Rasour cut an infinite company of heads off, and Sir Kilman slew many a valiant Knight, so the meddle waxed passing great and hard on both parties. But when Sir Fierce saw Sir Cruel on foot, he ran like a Lion upon Sir Meddlemuch his Enemy, and smote him through the left side, that horse and man fell down to the ground: Then he took the horse by the reins, and led him to Sir Cruel, and said, Have thou this Horse, mine old Friend, for great need hast thou of an Horse. Gramercy, said Sir Cruel, and lightly mounted. So then he saw Prince Corniger do mervailously, that all men had wonder thereof; for he smote King Boldenough on the Helm, that a quarter of the Helm and half the Shield fell down, and so the Sword carved down unto the Horse neck; and so both Horse and Man fell to the ground. But there came fourteen Knights upon him▪ and then he smote one of them on the Helm, and it went down to the Teeth; and he road to another, and smote him that his Arm flew into the Field; then he went to the third, and smote him on the Shoulder, that both Shoulder and Arm flew into the Field; and he smote another Knight on the Neck, that Head and Helm went to the earth: So Sir Cruel, Sir Fierce, and Sir Razor, and Sir Kilman by Prince Cornigers example, smote off Heads, Legs, and Arms wonderfully. So the Battle was passing hardy, that many Knights shook and trembled for eagerness.  
Then Prince Corniger seeing the Battle would not be ended by no manner, he faced like a Wood Lion, and stirred his Horse here and there, on the right hand and on the left, that he stinted not till he had slain twenty Knights; so there was a terrible meddle of breaking Spears and smiting of Swerds, with slaying of men and horses, and the enemies were at a loss; for there was newly arrived Sir Bloody as a fierce Tiger, that his strokes redounded again from the Wood and the Water; so that the Enemies were forced to hurtle together for great dread, and a great multitude fled, but his blow fell upon Sir Coward, and carved a cantel of his Shield; and the Sword slid down by the Hawberk behind his back, and cut in twain the Trapper of Steel, and the Horse also in two pieces. So he became so bloody, that no man might know him; for all was Blood and Brains about him.  
Then returned Prince Corniger with his Knights to his Castle, where all his Barons attended on him, and there came a fair Damesel also which was an Earls Daughter, and she came thither to do homage as other Lords did after the great Battle; and Prince Corniger set his Love gretely upon her, so she did upon him; and the King had a do with her, and that night dreamt a marvelous Dream whereof he was right sore adread: for him thought that there was coming in his Lond many Gryssons and Serpents, and him thought he they slew much of his people; and then him thought he fought with them, and that they did him passing great demage, and wounded him full sore. So the King awoke, and was passing heavy and right pensive of his Dream; and then to put away all thoughts of Battle, next morning he made him ready with his Knights to ride on Hunting; and assoon as he came in the Forest, he saw a great Hart before him; this Hart will I chase, said he; and so he spurred his Horse, and road along after, and so by fine force oft he was like to have smitten the Hart; whereas his Horse fell down dead, and he sat him down by a Fountain, and there he fell into great thoughts: And as he sat there alone, him thought he heard a noise of Hounds to the number of thirty Couple, and with that he saw coming towards him the strangest Beast that ever he saw or heard tell of; for the Beast went to the Fountain and drank, and the noise was in the Beast's Belly like unto the Questing of thirty Couple of Hounds; but all the while the beast drank, there was no noise in the beasts belly; and therewith the beast departed with a great noise, whereof Prince Corniger had gread marvel.  
Then the King arose and went forwards a good pace to seek for his Knights, and so as he went he came to a rich Pavilion; then was he beware where a Knight sat all armed in his Chair. Sir Knight, said the King, for what cause abidest thou here, that no Knight may ride this way, said he, before he Just with me? I'll make thee leave that Custom, said the King. This Custom, replied the Knight, have I used, and will use, maugre who saith nay, and who is grieved with my Custom, let him amend it that will. I will amend it, said the King, and I will defend it, said the Knight. So anon he lent the King a Horse, and dressed his Shield, and took a Spear, and they met so hard either in others Shield, that they all to shevered their Spears; but the Knight hit him so hard in the middle of the Shield, that Horse and Man fell to the ground. Then Prince Corniger was wrath, and dressed his Shield towards him with his Sword drawn: When the Knight see that, he alighted, for him thought it was no worship to have a Knight at such advantage, he to be on Horseback, and that other on foot; and so alight and dressed him to Prince Corniger; and there began a strong Battle with many great strokes: and so they hewed with their Swerds, that the Cantels flew in the fields, and much blood they bled both. So at the last they smote together, that both their Swerds met even together; but the Sword of the Knight smote the King's Sword in two pieces. Wherefore he was full sorry, and leapt upon the Knight, and took him by the middle, and threw him down, and razed his Helm. When the Knight saw that, he was adread; for he was a passing big man of might, and anon he brought Prince Corniger under him, and razed off his Helm, and would have smitten off his head.  
Therewithal came the Lady of the Isle of Witch, (for she was an Enchantress) and said, Knight hold thy hand; for and thou ●lee that Knight, thou puttest this Realm in the greatest damage that ever Realm was in, for this Knight is a man of more worship than thou wottest of. Why, who is he said the Knight; It is Prince Corniger, said she. Then would he have slain him for dread of his wrath, and heved up his Swerd; and therewith the Lady cast an Enchantment on the Knight, that he fell to the earth in a great sleep. Then the Lady took up the King; and as they road together upon the Knight's Horse, Alas, said Prince Corniger, hast thou slain this good Knight by thy crafts? there lived not so worshipful a Knight as he was. I had lever the stint of my Land a year that he were on live: Care ye not, said she, for he is wholler than ye; for he is but on sleep, and will awake within these three hours.  
Right so the King departed, and went unto an Hermitage, whereas was a good man, and a great leech. So the Hermit searched all his wounds, and gave him good Salves; and the King was there three days, and then were his wounds well amended, that he might ride and go; and so he departed with the Lady. And as they road, Prince Corniger said, I have no Sword, nor wot I where to gain one so good as that I lost. Here by is a Sword, said she, that shall be yours, and I may.  
So they road till they came to a Lake, which was a fair Water, and a broad; and in the midst of the Lake Prince Corniger was aware of an Arm clothed in white Satin, that held a fair Sword in the hand. Lo ' said the Lady to the King, yonder is the Sword in that Arm which I spoke of. With that he saw the Damsel that brought him the other Sword, going upon the Lake. What Damsel is that, said the King? It is my servant, said the Lady, and she will come to you anon, and then speak fair to her, that she will give you that Sword: Therewith came the Damesel to the King, and saluted him, and he her again. Damesel, said the King, what Sword is that which the Arm holdeth yonder above water? I would it were mine, for I have no Sword.  
Sir, said the Damesel of the Lake, if you will venture for it, you may have it; but be advised, that many Knights have perished in the attempt That shall not make me adread, said the King; for I wot he is not worthy of a Sword that deserveth it not. Than, said she, you may go to yonder Barge, and row yourself to the Sword; and if no tempest arise, it is yours, and take it, and the Scabbard with it▪ So than anon he came to the Sword, and took it up by the handle, and brought it with him; and the Arm and Hand went under the water, and so he came to land: But the Lady and her Maid were gone he wist not whither, which made him passing heavy.  
So he road forth, and came to his Castle, whereof his Knights were passing glad; and when they heard of his Adventures, they marvailed that he would jeopard his person alone. But all men of Worship said it was fine to be under such a Chieftain, that would put his person in adventure, as other poor Knights did.  
The mean while came a messenger hastily from King Palliobarb, and he was King of many Isles; and this was his message, greeting well Prince Corniger in this manner wise, saying, that King Palliobarb had discomfited and overcome eleven Kings, and each of them did him homage, and that was, they gave him their Beards clean slain off as much as there was: Wherefore the messenger came for Cornigers' Beard; for King Palliobarb had pu●feled a mantle with King's Beards, and there lacked for one place of the mantle, wherefore he sent for his Beard; or else he would enter into his Lands, and burn and slay, and never leave till he have thy Head and thy Beard. Well, said the King, thou hast said thy message, which is the most villainous and lewdest message that ever man heard sent to a King. Also thou may'st see my Beard is full young yet for to make a purfel of. But tell thou the King this, I owe him no homage, ne none of mine Elders; but ere it be long he shall do me homage on both his knees, or else he shall lose his Head by the faith of my body; for this is the most shameful message that ever I heard speak of. I see well King Palliobarb never met with worshipful man; but tell him I will have his Head without he do homage unto me: Then the Messenger departed.  
And forth withal there came a poor man into the Court, and brought with him a fair young man of eighteen years of age riding upon a lean Mare, for he had newly sprained his Leg; and the poor man asked all men that he met, Where shall I find the King? Yonder he is, said the Knights, wilt thou any thing with him? Yea, said the poor man, therefore I came hither. Anon as he came before the King, he saluted him, and said, O Prince Corniger, the Flower of all Knights and Kings, I beseech Jesus save thee. Sir, it was told me, that at this time now you are made King, that within the first year and a day you would grant any man the gift that he would ask, except it were unreasonable. That is troth, said the King, such cries I let make, and those will I hold, so they appair not my Realm nor mine estate. Ye say well and graciously, quoth the poor man; Sir, I ask nothing else, but that ye will make my Son a Knight. It is a great thing thou ask est of me, said the King, what is thy name? My name is Bubulcus the Cowherd, said the poor man. Whither cometh this desire of thee or of thy Son, said the King. Nay Sir, said Bubulcus, this desire cometh of my Son, and not of me; for I shall tell you, I have seven Sons, and all they will fall to what labour I put them, and will be right glad to do labour; but this Child will do no labour for me for any thing that my Wife or I may do, but always he will be shooting or casting Darts, and glad to see Battles, and to behold Knights; and always both day and night he desireth of me to be made a Knight. What is thy name amongst thy Companions, said the King to the young man? They call me, said he, Crucifrage ever since I ran so fast to take a Lamb from a Wolf, that I broke my Leg. Than the King beheld him fast, and saw he was passingly well visaged, and passingly well made of his years; and he said to Bubulcus the Cowherd, Where is the Sword that he shall be made Knight withal? It is here, said the youth; then take it out of the sheath, said the King, and require me to make thee a Knight: Then he pulled out his Sword, and required the King he would make him a Knight. I will make you, said the King, and therewith smote him in the neck with the Sword, saying, Be ye a good Knight, and so I pray to God ye may be of Prowess and Worthiness▪ Now, said he to one of his Knights named Sir Astrolog, that had Skill in Physiognomy, say whether Sir Crucifrag shall be a good Knight or no? Yea Sir, said Sir Astrolog, he ought to be a good Knight, for he is come of as good a man as any is o'n live, and of King's blood. How so, said the King? I shall tell you, said Sir Astrolog, this poor man the Cowherd is not his fader. But I suppose nay, said the Cowherd. Well fetch thy Wife, said Sir Astrolog, afore me, and she shall say nay. Anon the Wife was sent for, which was a fair Housewife; and there she answered Sir Astrolog full womanly. And there she told the King, that when she was a Maid, and went to milk Kine, there met her a stern Knight, and half by force he got her Maidenhead, and at that time he begat this Youth; and he took away from me my Greyhound that I had at that time with me, and said that he would keep it for my Love. Ah, said the Cowherd, I wend not this, but I may believe it well, for he had never no likeness of me. Sir Astrolog, said Sir Crucifrag, dishonour not my Mother. Sir, said Sir Astrolog, it is more for your worship then hurt; for your Fader is a good Knight and a King, and you were begotten before your Mother was married. That is troth, said the Wife. It is the less grief to me, said the Cowherd.  
Right so the Cowherd departed, and Sir Crucifrag rode forth to seek Adventures; when as he was aware of a Knight on the other side the Lond all armed save the Head; and on the other side the Lond came a Dwarf on Horseback also all armed, but the Head with a great Mouth and a short Nose: And the Dwarf when he came nigh the Knight, said, Where is the Lady that should meet us here? And therewithal she came forth out of the Wood, and they began to strive for the Lady; for the Knight said that he would have her, and the Dwarf said that he would have her. Well, ye do well, said the Dwarf, yonder is a Knight at the Cross, let us put it to his judgement; and as he deemeth, even so be it. I will: Well, said the Knight. And then they went all three unto Sir Crucifrag, and told him wherefore they two strove. Well Sir, said he, will ye put the matter into my hands? Yea Sir, said they both. Now Damesel, said Sir Crucifrag, ye shall stand between them both, and whether ye list better to go to, he shall have you. And so when the Damesel was set between them two, she left the Knight, and went to the Dwarf: and the Dwarf took her, and went his way singing, and the Knight went his way mourning.  
Then came Sir Crucifrag to an Husbandman of the Country who told him how there was in that place a great Giant, who had slain, murdered, and devoured much people of the Country, and had been sustained seven years with the Children of the Commons of that Land, and now of late he had taken a Duchess, the fairest Woman in the world, and killed her Husband, and had led her to his Lodging which was in a Mountain, for to ravish her, and lie by her to her lives end; and many people followed her more than five hundred; but all they might not rescue her, but they left her shrieking and crying most lamentably; wherefore I suppose he hath slain her in fulfilling his foul lust of Lechery. Alas, said Sir Crucifrag, this is a great mischief, I had lever then the best Realm, that I had been a furlong way before him, to have rescued her. Now fellow, said Sir Crucifrag, canst thou bring me there where as this Giant haunteth? Yea Sir, said the poor man, lo yonder whereas you see two great fires, there shall ye not fail to find him, and more Treasure as I suppose then is in a great Realm. When Sir Crucifrag had well understood this piteous case, he made ready his Horse and Harness, and after Evensong he road forth as fast as he might, till he came to the Mountain; and so he ascended up the Mount till he came to a great fire, and there found he a careful Widow wring her hands, and making great sorrow, sitting by a Grave new made: And then Sir Crucifrag saluted her, and demanded her whereof she made so great lamentation: Unto whom she answered, Sir Knight, speak soft, for yonder is a Monster; if he hear thee speak he will come and destroy thee: I hold thee unhappy for coming here in this Mountain, for if ye were such fifty as ye be, ye were not able to make resistance against this Devil. See where lieth a Woman dead, which was the Sister to a Noble man's Wife, that he hath murdered in forcing her. Dame, said Sir Crucifrag, I come from the great Prince Corniger to treat with this Tyrant, for his Liege People. Fie upon such Treaties, said the Widow, he setteth nought by Prince Corniger, ne by no man else. Beware, approach him not nigh, sor he hath over come and vanquished fifteen Kings, and four hundred Knights, and hath made a Coat embroidered with their Beards, which they sent him to have his love for sparing of their people; but on if thou wilt speak with him, at yonder fire he is at supper. Well, said Sir Crucifrag, I will accomplish my message for all your fearful words, and he went forth by the crest of that Hill, and saw where he sat at souper knawing on the limb of a man, beking his broad limbs by the fire, and breechless, and three Damsels turning three broochs, whereon were broached twelve young Children late born like young birds. When Sir Crucifrag beheld this piteous sight, he had great compassion on them, so that his heart bled for sorrow, and hailed him, saying in this wise, He that all the world weldeth give thee short life, and a shameful death, and the Devil have thy soul; why hast thou murdered these young innocent Children, and this Woman? Therefore arise and dress thee thou Clutton, for this day shalt thou die of my hands. Then anon the Giant started up, and took a great club in his hand, and smote at Sir Crucifrag, that his Club fell far into the earth, and Sir Crucifrag, hit him again, that he carved his belly (for he was breechless for haste) that his Guts and Entrails fell down to the ground; then the three Damsels kneeled down, and called to our Lord Jesus Christ for help and comfort of the noble Knight Sir Crucifrag. So Sir Crucifrag smote off the Giant's Head, and the Damsels came and thanked him, and brought him to the fair Duchess, and many prisoners. These he released, and bid them divide the Goods amongst them; only he took the Giant's head and Club, and the fair Duchess to himself, and with her he made good cheer, and either drank to other freely of the Giants good wine; and they thought never drink that ever they drank to other was so sweet nor so good. But by that their drink was in their bodies, they loved each other so well, that Sir Crucifrag and the Duchess Love was not to be parted for we'll nor for woe.  
And so anon they departed, and road so long, till by fortune they came nigh a Castle, and there they arrived for to rest them, weening to have had good harbour. But anon as Sir Crucifrag was within the Castle, they were taken prisoners; for the Custom of that Castle was, that such that brought any Lady, must needs fight with the Lord of the Castle, which was high Sir Bullirock, and he that was weakest should lose his head; and than if his Lady be fouler than the Lords Wife, she must less her head; and if she be fairer proved, than the Lady of the Castle must lose her head. Now so God help me, said Sir Crucifrag, this is a shameful custom; netheless I have one avantage, for I have a Lady, fairer saw I never in all my life days, and I doubt not but she shall save her head. Then he said to the Knight that took them Prisoners, I have great marvel, Sir, what is the cause that your Lord holdeth us Prisoners; for it was never the custom of any place of worship that ever I came in, that when a Knight and a Lady asked harbour, and were received, and then after they should be destroyed, it is a foul evil custom by the faith of my body; wherefore tell your Lord, I will be ready as to morrow with my Lady and myself to Battle, if it be so that I may have my Horse and my Armour. Sir, said the Knight, undertake that your desire shall speed right well, and therewith he departed. And on the morrow betimes that same Knight came unto Sir Crucifrag, and put him and his Lady out of Prison, and brought him Horse and Armour which was his own, and bade him make him ready to the Field: For all the Chieftains and Commons of that Lordship were there ready to behold the Battle, and give judgement. Then came Sir Bullirock the Lord of the Castle, holding his Lady by the hand all muffled, and asked Sir Crucifrag where his Lady was, for and thy Lady be fairer than mine, with thy Swerd smite off my Lady's head, and if my Lady be fairer than thine, then must I strike off her head; and if my Lady lose her head, yet shall I slay thee, and have thy Lady. Sir Knight, said Sir Crucifrag, this is a foul and an horrible custom, and rather than my Lady should lose her head, yet had I lever lose my head. Nay, said Sir Bullirock, the Ladies shall be first showed together; then I doubt not, said Sir Crucifrag, but my Lady is fairer than thine, and that will I prove and make good with mine own hands; and whosoever he be that will say nay, I will prove it upon his Head: And therewithal Sir Crucifrag showed his Lady, and turned her thrice about, with his naked Sword drawn in his hand. And when Sir Bullirock saw that, he turned his Lady about in the same wise. But when he beheld Sir Crucifrag's Lady, him thought he never saw a fairer Lady, and then he did dread that his Lady's Head should be smitten off: And all the people that were there present, gave judgement that Sir Crucifrag's Lady was fairer than the Lady of the Castle, and the better made body. So God me help, said Sir Bullirock, thy Lady is fairer than mine, and that me sore repenteth, and therefore slay my Lady, for I doubt not but thy Lady shall be mine. Thou must win her, said Sir Crucifrag, as dear as ever Knight won Lady; and because of thine own judgement, as thou wouldst have done unto my Lady, if she had been fouler than thine; and because of thine evil custom, give me thy Lady, and therewithal he strode unto Sir Bullirock, and took his Lady from him, and with an awke struck he smote off her Head. Now Knight, said Sir Bullirock, now hast thou done me a despite; wherefore take thy Horse, sith I have lost my Lady; for I will win thy Lady, and I may. Then they took their Horses, and came together as fast as their Horses might run, and both fell to the ground horse and man. Then Sir Bullirock gave Sir Crucifrag three or four sad blows before he could recover, and would have slain him, but Sir Crucifrag was young and nimble, and avoided his Horse, and then they rushed together like two wild Boar full mightily; for this Sir Bullirock was a proved Knight, and had been e'er then the death of many good Knights, that it was pity that he had so long endured; and thus they fought hurtling here and there two hours: So Sir Crucifrag was wroth, and took a mighty blow, for he was a big and strong Knight, and clove Sir Bullirock from the Crest of his Pate to his Breast; and then all they that belonged to the Castle came and did him homage, praying that he would foredo that foul Custom. Sir Crucifrag granted thereto; then he returned to Prince Corniger with his Lady.  
But as he Road, there met him I trow, the Richest Lady and the Fairest of all the World, who saluted him, and he her; then she besought him to be her Love, for she had loved him above all earthly men, and she would make him richer than ever was man of his age. When Sir Crucifrag heard her words, he was right evil at ease, for he could not consent before his dear Lady, so wist he not how to answer. Alas said she I Will you not stay with me one night? Madam said Sir Crucifrag, there is no Lady in the World whose will I will fulfil as touching this thing, but this. Then she made much sorrow, as if she would have died. Now you have brought me to my end said she, and therewith she departed and went up to a high Battlement, and led with her twelve Gentlewomen and when they were above, one of them cried, Sir, Gentile Knight, have mercy on us all, and suffer my Lady to have her will, or we must perish with her from this high Tower. Than Sir Crucifrag looked up, and they seemed all Ladies of great Estate and Riches, and well beseen; then had he great pity of them: but he was counselled within himself, that lever than he forsake his own good Lady, they all died. So they fell down all at once to the earth, and when he saw that sudden chance, he was right sore abashed, and had thereof full great marvel; and with that he blessed his Body and his Visage, and anon he heard a full great noise and a great cry, as though all the Fiends in Hell had been about him; and therewith he saw neither Tower nor Ladies, ne Gentlewomen, ne Chapel. Than held he up both his hands to Heaven, and said, Good Father, I am right well escaped: And then he took his way straight to Prince Corniger's Castle with his Lady, and found there a passing fair Fellowship, and well beseen, whereof each other had great joy. And when he told how he had sped, they had great marvel, that man on earth might speed so soon, and go and come.  
So it drew fast to Michaelmas, and thither came many a noble and Peerless Lady and good Knights to see the Wedding between Sir Crucifrag and the Duchess; and so when this Solemnity was done, there came in fourscore Knights and thirty Ladies, and all these told the King how Sir Crucifrag had delivered them from the dolorous Giant, and slew him without pity; and therefore we and our Heirs will do homage unto Sir Crucifrag. So then Prince Corniger made him his Champion that same day; and after that the Earls and Barons, and many stout Knights went unto meat, and well ye may wit that there was all manner of meat plenteously, and all manner of Revels, and Games, and Dancing; and the King's chief Musician sang on this wise.  
O Would to God that now were one,  
another such as Arion,  
who had a harp of such tempture,  
and thereto of so good measure  
he sung, that he the beasts willed  
made of his note tame and mild.  
The Hind in peace with the Lion,  
the Wolf in peace with the Mutton,  
the Hart in peace stood with the Hound;  
and every man on the same ground  
which at that time this Harper heard,  
as well the Lord as the Shepherd.  
He brought them all in good accord,  
so that the Common with the Lord,  
and Lords with the Common also,  
he set in amity both two,  
and put away melancholy;  
that was a lusty melody,  
when every man did th' other love.  
And if there were the ground above  
one which could harp as he did,  
he might avail in many a stead,  
to make peace where now is hate,  
for many men think on debate.  
And now God wot upon this tide,  
we see the world on every side  
in sundry wise so diversed,  
that it well nigh stands all reversed.  
So were it good at this tide,  
that every man on his side  
besought, and prayed for the peace,  
which is the cause of all increase,  
of worship, and of world's wealth,  
of heart's rest, and souls health.  
Then pray for Peace ye mortal men.  
Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen.  
Then after these fine doings, the next day jousted Sir Cruel, and he o'erthrew thirty Knights, and did passing marvellous deeds of Arms, that all men had great wonder of his noble deeds. Also the second day jousted Sir Razor, and he o'erthrew twenty Knights, and did like a mighty Knight. The third day jousted Sir Fierce, and he o'erthrew nine and thirty Knights, some Horse and man, and some the man and not the horse, and there was none but he was hit surely so, that he bore none Arms that day. But at the last came a strange Knight, and ran so hard against Sir Fierce, that he bore him down horse and man, that he lay in a Swoon. Now this stranger, as you shall know hereafter, was King Palliobarb, which had been esteemed the biggest Knight in the world; for having heard of Sir Crucifrag, and because Prince Corniger had denied to send his Beard, he had great despite, and set out from his Castle with two Knights to come and kill Prince Corniger, or Sir Crucifrag; but in the way he said to his Knights, Now will I tell you my counsel, for ye be the men that I trust most on live; and I will that ye wot my going is to this intent, for to destroy Prince Corniger or Sir Crucifrag, by wiles or by treason; and it shall be hard if they escape us. Alas, said one of them, what thing mean you to be set in such a way, ye are shamefully disposed; for Sir Crucifrag and Prince Corniger are Knights of the most worship that we know now living; and therefore I warn you plainly, that I will never consent to do him to death; and therefore I will yield my service and forsake you. When King Palliobarb heard him say so, suddenly he drew his Sword, and said, O false Traitor, and smote him on the head, so that the Sword went to his teeth: When the other Knight saw him do that villainous deed, and also the Squires, they said all it was foully done and mischievously; wherefore we will appeach thee of Treason before Prince Corniger and Sir Crucifrag. Then was the King wondrous wrath, and would have slain him; but he and the two Squires held them together, and set nought by his malice; so he departed from them, and they buried the Body.  
Thus came King Palliobarb to Prince Corniger's Castle, and smote Sir Fierce, thinking by his mervaillous deeds that he was Sir Crucifrag. Beside, he defied all Prince Corniger's Knights that day, and let cry how he would fight with any of them body for body, but there could be found no Knight amongst them that would fight with him that day. The next day (for he might not fight the three days of his Marriage Feast) Sir Crucifrag offered himself to fight with that bold Knight. I shall fight with him, said he, or else I will be slain in the plain Field.  
So on the morrow they met to do battle as long as Horse may endure; and after that to do battle on Foot to their lives end. So when appointment was made, they departed each from the other, and they came together with all the might that their Horses might run, and either smote other so hard, that both Horse and Knights went unto the earth. Then they both lightly arose, and dressed their Shields on their Shoulders with naked Swerds in their hands, and they dashed together like as they had been a flaming fire; thus they traced, and razed, and hewed on Helms, and cut away many pieces and cantels of their Shields, and either wounded other passing sore, so that the hot blood fell upon the earth; and by that they had fought together the maintenance of an hour, King Palliobarb waxed faint, and gave sore aback, that saw Sir Crucifrag, and followed fiercely upon him, for he gave him twenty strokes for one, and ever he cried, yield thee. So King Palliobarb threw away his Sword, and pulled off his Helm to breath; but when Prince Corniger and his Barons saw it was King Palliobarb, they were mervailously astonished: But he fell dead to the earth for grief and for his wounds. Then did Prince Corniger make great joy for the Victory, and gave Sir Crucifrag a brave castle for his reward, for delivering him from his great Enemy King Palliobarb, who had been counted the most villainous as well as the stoutest Knight on earthly habitation; and eke also all the Barons and Knights praised the stern might of Sir Crucifrag, so that he was counted the worshipfullest Knight of the world: but some were envious. For at the season of the merry month of May, when every lusty heart flourisheth; for as the season is lusty to behold, and comfortable; so man and woman rejoice: for Winter with his rough winds and blasts, causeth a lusty man to coure and sit by the fire. So in this month of May it fell out, that there happened a great Love of the Queen to Sir Crucifrag, the which never stinted till the Flower of Chivalry of all the world was destroyed and slain; and this befell long of two unhappy Knights, who had ever a privy hate unto Sir Crucifrag's Prowess, and then they said openly, and not in counsel, that many Knights might hear it, I marvel that we all be not ashamed both to see and know how Sir Crucifrag lieth daily and nightly by the Queen, and all we know it so, and it is shamefully suffered of us all, that we should suffer so noble a King as is Prince Corniger, to be shamed; therefore fall of it what fall may, I will declare it to the King. Ye shall not do so, said the rest; for if there rise any war and wrath between Sir Crucifrag and us, wit you well, there will be many Kings and Knights that will hold with Sir Crucifrag; also Sir Crucifrag hath done the King great service, and rescued him from his Enemies; and the best of us all had been full cold at the heart root, had not Sir Crucifrag been a better Knight than we. Do you then as you list, said Sir Blaball, (for it was his name) I will hide so no longer.  
With these words came to them the King. Now stint your noise. said they to Sir Blaball. But I will not, quoth he. Than good speed, said they, for we will not hear your tales, ne any of your counsel; and therewith they departed, making great doole.  
And then Prince Corniger asked Sir Blaball what noise they made. My Liege, said Sir Blaball, I shall tell you what I may hold no longer. Here is I and my Brother Sneeks know all, that Sir Crucifrag holdeth your Queen, and hath done long, and we your good Friends and Servants may not suffer it any longer; and therefore we will prove that he is a Traitor to your person. If it be so, said the King, wit you well he is an hardy Knight, and all know he is the man of most might among us; and if he be taken with the deed, he will fight with him that brought up the noise, and I know no Knight is able to match him. But if it be sooth that ye say, I would he were taken in the deed. My Lord, said Sir Blaball, to morrow shall ye ride on Hunting, and when it draweth toward night, ye may send the Queen word that ye will lie out all that night, and so may ye send for your Cooks; and then upon pain of death we shall bring him dead or alive. I will, well, said the King; but beware, for ye shall find him mighty wyghty. So on the morrow the King road on Hunting: Then Sir Blaball and Sir Sneeks did themselves in a Chamber in the Castle. So when night came, Sir Crucifrag told his trusty Friend Sir Fierce, he would go speak with the Queen. Sir, said Sir Fierce, I always dread me much of Sir Sneeks and his Brother Sir Blaball, who wait you daily to do you shame, and never gave my heart against any going that ever ye went to the Queen so much as now. Have ye no doubt, said Sir Crucifrag, I shall go and come, and make no tarrying; and I will not be so much a Coward, but that she shall understand I will see her good grace. Speed you well, said Sir Fierce, and send you safe and sound.  
So Sir Crucifrag departed, and took his sword underneath his arm; and so that noble Knight went forth in his Mantle, and put himself in great jeopardy, and so he passed till he came to the Queen. And than the Queen and Sir Crucifrag were together, and whither they were a bed, or at Other manner of sports, me list not thereof to make mention, (for Love at that time was not as it is now adays) but thus as they were together, there came Sir Blaball with Sir Sneeks, and ten more Knights, crying with a loud noise, that all the Court might hear it, Traitorous Knight, Sir Crucifrag, now art thou taken. Alas, said the Queen, now are we mischieved both. Madam, said he, have you any Armour here within your Chamber, that I might cover my body withal; and if there be any, I pray you heartily let me have, and I shall soon stint their malice. Truly, said the Queen, I have no Armour, ne Shield, ne Sword, ne Spear; wherefore I dread me sore our long Love is come to a mischievous end, and therefore ye are like to be slain, and I shall be brent. Alas, said Sir Crucifrag, in all my life was I never thus bestead, that I should be thus shamefully slain for lack of mine Armour; but always Sir Blaball cried, Traitor, come out of the Queen's Chamber. O Jesus, mercy, said Sir Crucifrag, this shameful cry and noise I may not suffer; for better were death at once, then thus to endure pain; and therewithal Sir Crucifrag wrapped his mantle round about his Arm well and surely, and by than they had gotten a great Form out of the Hall, and therewithal they dashed at the Chamber door. Fair Lords, said Sir Crucifrag, leave your noise and your dashing, and I shall set open the door, and then may ye do with me what it liketh you to do. Then Sir Crucifrag unbarred the Door, and with his left hand he held it open a little, so that but one man might come in at once; and so anon there came striding a good Knight, a big man and a large, and with a Sword he struck at Sir Crucifrag mightily; but Sir Crucifrag put aside the stroke, and gave him such a buffet upon the Helm, that he fell down dead, grovelling within the door: and then Sir Crucifrag with his stern might drew in the dead Knight within the Chamber, and with the help of the Queen and her Ladies was lightly armed in his Armour; and ever stood Sir Blaball crying, Traitor, come out of the Queen's Chamber, we will have thy Head maugre all thy might, if we please to slay thee; for we will let thee to wit, that we have the choice of Prince Corniger, to save thee or to slay thee. So then Sir Crucifrag was wroth, and set open the Chamber door, and mightily and Knightly he strode amongst them; and anon at the first beset he slew Sir Blaball, and within a little while after five more; for there was none of all them that might stand Sir Crucifrag a buffet. Also he wounded Sir Sneeks, and he fled with all his might, and the rest with him: and then Sir Crucifrag returned again to the Queen, and he kissed her, and promised to rescue her, and either gave other a Ring; and so he went to▪ his Lodging, and told Sir Fierce all that had happened; so they▪ fled to Sir Crucifrag's Castle, and many good Knights cleave to them.  
Now when Prince Corniger was advised of what was passed, he commanded his Knights to be ready in their best Array with their brethren, to bring the Queen to the Fire; for she shall soon have her Judgement: And then the Queen was led forth without the Castle, and there she was despoiled to her Smock; and so then her Ghostly Father was brought to her to be shriven of her misdeeds. Then was there weeping, and wailing, and wring of hands of many Lords and Ladies; but there were but few in comparison that would bare any Armour for to strengthen the death of the Queen. Then was there one that Sir Crucifrag had sent for to spy what time the Queen should go to her Judgement; and anon when as he saw that the Queen was despoiled to her Smock, and and also that she was shriven, than he gave warning to Sir Crucifrag; then was there hot spurning and plucking up of Horses, and right so they came to the Fire, and who stood against them were slain, there might none withstand Sir Crucifrag and Sir Fierce. So all that bare Arms and withstood them were slain, even many a noble Knight. Then when Sir Crucifrag had done this, and put to flight all that would withstand him, he road strait to the Queen, and made a Gown to be cast upon her; and then he made her to be set behind him, and prayed her to be of good cheer: Wit you well, that the Queen was right glad she was escaped from death; and then she thanked God and Sir Crucifrag, and so he road away with the Queen, and many cleave to him. Now when this was known openly that Prince Corniger and Sir Crucifrag were at debate, many Knights were glad of their debate, and many Knights were sorry of their debate.  
So then Prince Corniger scent Writes, and let cries throughout his Realm in length and breadth, for to assemble all his Knights, so that he had a great Host; and when they were assembled, the King told them how Sir Crucifrag had bereft him of his Queen: Then all made them ready to lay Siege to Sir Crucifrag, whereas he lay in his Castle. Thereof heard Sir Crucifrag, and purveyed him of many a good Knight, some for his own sake, and some for the Queens. Then Prince Corniger made many Knights to blow upon Sir Crucifrag, and all at once they called him, Traitorous and recreant Knight. At this Sir Crucifrag was wroth, and all his Knights; and on the morrow either party made them ready to do Battle, and great purveyance was made on both sides. Then came forth Sir Hasty on the King's party, and proffered to Just. So Sir Fierce ran against him, and smote him through the body. Then there began a great stir of breaking Spears, and smiting of Swerds; and ever Prince Corniger was nigh to Sir Crucifrag for to have slain him, and Sir Crucifrag suffered him, and would not strike again. Wherefore Sir Traitorous encountered with the King unawares, and there with a Spear he smote him down to the ground; and so he alighted and drew his Sword, and said to Sir Crucifrag, Shall I make an end of this War? and therewith he meant to have slain the King. Not so hardy, said Sir Crucifrag, upon pain of thy Head, if thou touch him any more: for I will see that the most noble King that made me Knight, be neither slain ne ashamed, and therewithal Sir Crucifrag alighted from his Horse, and took up the King, and horsed him again, and said unto him thus, My Liege Lord, for Gods Love stint the strife, for ye may get no worship, and I do my uttermost to forbear you, and ye, ne none of yours forbeareth me: My Liege, remember what I have done for you, and now am I evil rewarded. So when Prince Corniger was again on Horseback, he looked upon Sir Crucifrag, and the tears braced out of his eyes, thinking on the great courtesy that was in Sir Crucifrag more than in any other man; and therewith the King road his way, and might no longer behold him, and said to himself, Alas that ever this War began; and then either party withdrew them for to rest, and bury the dead bodies, and to the wounded they laid soft Salves; and thus they endured that night till on the morrow; and then they made them ready to Battle. Then came Sir Crucifrag as grim as any Bear, in a black Armour, that he might not be known, with a great Spear in his hand, and he smote on the right hand and on the left, which astonished Prince Corniger and all his Knights; so they resolved to set upon that sturdy Knight, but he ran Sir Killman through the body horse and all, and also with a buffet killed Sir Razor; but as he struck at Sir Ironside, his Sword broke, and Prince Corniger slew him. Then he drew away the body, to see who that famous and stern Knight might be; and when he see it was Sir Crucifrag, he ran his own Sword through his body, and died by him. Thus the dismal War ceased; and when the Queen heard of all the dolorous case, she poisoned herself. Then was weeping and wailing, and great dool, such as was never made, for the Flowers of Chivalry were withered and dead. O hone, O hone.   

The Authors Friend to the Readers upon his perusal of the Work.  
LO here Antiquity, what think you, Sirs,  
To see a Poem dressed in Boots and Spurco;  
A short Cloak, and long Breeches, in the fashion  
Of those that lived before us in this nation▪  
'Tis pretty (faith) and pleasant for to see  
How we with Antiquity disagree.  
And to that purpose here my loving friend  
His Conjuring-glass unto the World doth lend;  
Where both his worth appearing we may find,  
And Chaucer's Ghost, or else we all are blind.  
FINIS.