3
THE
WIFE OF BEITH.
In Beith once dwelt a worthy wife,
Of whom brave Chaucer mention makes,
She lived a licentious life
And namely in venereal acts.
But death did come for all her eracks,
When years were spent and days out driven,
Then suddenly she sickness takes,
Deceased forthwith, and went to heaven.
But as she went upon the way,
There followed her a certain guide,
And kindly to her he did say,
Where mean you, dame, for to abide?
I know thou art the wife of Beith,
And would not then that you go wrong,
For I'm your friend and will be leath
That you go through this narrow throng;
This way is broader, go with me,
And very pleaſant is the way;
I'll bring you there where you would be,
Go with me friend, say me not nay,
She looked on him, then did speer,
