When they were come unto the court, this knight Said, he had held his day, as he had hight, 2071 And ready was his answer, as he said. Full many a noble wife, and many a maid, And many a widow, for that they be wise⁠— The queen herself sitting as a justíce⁠— Assembled be, his answer for to hear, And afterward this knight was bid appear. To every wight commanded was silénce, And that the knight should tell in audience, What thing that worldly women love the best. This knight he stood not still, as doth a beast, But to this questión anon answér’d With manly voice, that all the court it heard, “My liegë lady, generally,” quoth he, “Women desire to have the sovereignty As well over their husband as their love, And for to be in mast’ry him above. This is your most desire, though ye me kill, Do as you list, I am here at your will.” In all the court there was no wife nor maid, Nor widow, that contráried what he said, But said, he worthy was to have his life.