is too late from cursing and swearing, dice and covetousness. Think
of our Lord who bought us with His precious blood and of whom the
world was not worthy; think and repent. Here if you repent and turn
from avarice may you buy pardon. Bring up your offerings, crowns, or
silver brooches and spoons or rings. Housewives, bring your wool and
the High Power will grant you pardon. Here in my roll I write your
names as pure as on the day you were born!

"But, gentlemen, there was one point I forgot to mention. I have in
my pack as fine pardons and relics as any in England. They bear the
Pope's seal upon them, and if any of you will kneel down and give me
your offerings then you may kiss the relics and I will grant you
absolution, or, if you prefer, you may buy a fresh pardon at every
mile's end, only, of course, you must make a fresh offering every
time!

"It's really very fortunate for this company that such an experienced
pardoner is among you. The risks of the road are so great that at any
moment anyone may fall and break his neck, and on such occasions it's
a great help to have had one's sins adequately pardoned.

"Come, gentle people all. Let the Host begin. His sins enwrap him
round. Stand forth, good Host, make your offering and kiss my relics!
Why, for a groat you may kiss them all. Unbuckle your purse anon and
begin!"

"Go to," said the Host. "We know your relics! You would have me kiss
your dirty old rags. Were they in my hand, I'd fling them into a
pig-trough!"