                                      1380
                                CANTERBURY TALES
                             THE SQUIRE'S PROLOGUE
                              by Geoffrey Chaucer

  Squire, come nearer, if your will it be,
  And speak to us of love; for certainly
  You know thereof as much as any man."
    "Nay, sir," said he, "but I'll do what I can
  With hearty will; for I will not rebel
  Against your wishes, but a tale will tell.
  Hold me excused if I say aught amiss,
  My aim is good, and lo, my tale is this."
