But, for ye speaken of such gentleness As is descended out of old richéss, That therefore shallë ye be gentlemen; Such arrogancy is not worth a hen. 2086 Look who that is most virtuous alway, Prive and apert, 2087 and most intendeth aye To do the gentle deedës that he can; And take him for the greatest gentleman. Christ will, 2088 we claim of him our gentleness, Not of our elders 2089 for their old richéss. For though they gave us all their heritage, For which we claim to be of high parage, 2090 Yet may they not bequeathë, for no thing, To none of us, their virtuous living That made them gentlemen called to be, And bade us follow them in such degree.