Chapter 18

Thus having consulted, this couple parted. Next day this young squire he took to his bed; And when his dear parents this thing both perceived, For fear of his death they were right sorely grieved.

To tend him they send for a nurse speedily, He said, ‘None but Catskin my nurse now shall be.’ His parents said, ‘No, son.’ He said, ‘But she shall, Or else I’ll have none for to nurse me at all.’

His parents both wondered to hear him say thus, That no one but Catskin must be his nurse; So then his dear parents their son to content, Up into his chamber poor Catskin they sent.

Sweet cordials and other rich things were prepared, Which between this young couple were equally shared; And when all alone they in each other’s arms, Enjoyed one another in love’s pleasant charms.

And at length on a time poor Catskin, ’tis said, In her rich attire again was arrayed, And when that his mother to the chamber drew near, Then much like a goddess did Catskin appear;

Which caused her to stare, and thus for to say, ‘What young lady is this, come tell me, I pray?’ He said, ‘It is Catskin for whom sick I lie, And except I do have her with speed I shall die.’

His mother then hastened to call up the knight, Who ran up to see this amazing great sight; He said, ‘Is this Catskin we held in such scorn? I ne’er saw a finer dame since I was born.’

The old knight he said to her, ‘I prithee tell me, From whence thou didst come and of what family?’ Then who were her parents she gave them to know, And what was the cause of her wandering so.

The young squire he cried, ‘If you will save my life, Pray grant this young creature she may be my wife.’ His father replied, ‘Thy life for to save, If you have agreed, my consent you may have.’

Next day, with great triumph and joy as we hear, There were many coaches came far and near; Then much like a goddess dressed in rich array, Catskin was married to the squire that day.

For several days this wedding did last, Where was many a topping and gallant repast, And for joy the bells rung out all over the town, And bottles of canary rolled merrily round.

When Catskin was married, her fame for to raise, Who saw her modest carriage they all gave her praise; Thus her charming beauty the squire did win; And who lives so great now as he and Catskin.