This messenger came from the king again, And at the kingë’s mother’s court he light, 1642 And she was of this messenger full fain, 1643 And pleased him in all that e’er she might. He drank, and well his girdle underpight; 1644 He slept, and eke he snored in his guise All night, until the sun began to rise.

Eft 1645 were his letters stolen every one, And counterfeited letters in this wise: The king commanded his Constable anon, On pain of hanging and of high jewíse, 1646 That he should suffer in no manner wise Constance within his regne 1647 for to abide Three dayës, and a quarter of a tide; 1648