Among this poorë folk there dwelt a man Which that was holden poorest of them all; But highë God sometimës sendë can His grace unto a little ox’s stall; Janicola men of that thorp him call. A daughter had he, fair enough to sight, And Griseldis this youngë maiden hight.

But for to speak of virtuous beauty, Then was she one the fairest under sun: Full poorëly y-foster’d up was she; No likerous lust 2472 was in her heart y-run; Well ofter of the well than of the tun 2473 She drank, and, for 2474 she wouldë virtue please, She knew well labour, but no idle ease.