The Tale

Whilom 2148 there was dwelling in my countrý An archdeacon, a man of high degree, That boldëly did executión, In punishing of fornicatión, Of witchëcraft, and eke of bawdery, Of defamation, and adultery, Of churchë-reevës, 2149 and of testaments, Of contracts, and of lack of sacraments, And eke of many another manner 2150 crime, Which needeth not rehearsen at this time, Of usury, and simony also; But, certes, lechours did he greatest woe; They shouldë singen, if that they were hent; 2151 And smallë tithers 2152 werë foul y-shent, 2153