away
of the Gentlewoman, and how I bare her upon my backe, and what death
was ordained for us two. Then he desired to see her, whereupon the
Gentlewoman was brought forth fast bound, whom as soone as he beheld, he
turned himselfe wringing his nose, and blamed them saying: I am not so
much a beast, or so rash a fellow to drive you quite from your purpose,
but my conscience will not suffer me to conceale any thing that toucheth
your profit, since I am as carefull for you, howbeit if my counsell doe
displease you, you may at your liberty proceed in your enterprise.
I doubt not but all theeves, and such as have a good judgement, will
preferre their owne lucre and gain above all things in the world,
and above their vengeance, which purchaseth damage to divers persons.
Therefore if you put this virgin in the Asses belly, you shall but
execute your indignation against her, without all manner of profit; But
I would advise you to carry the virgin to some towne and to sell her:
and such a brave girle as she is, may be sold for a great quantity
of money. And I my selfe know certaine bawdy Marchants, amongst whom
peradventure one will give us summes of gold for her. This is my opinion
touching this affaire: but advise you what you intend to do, for you
may rule me in this case. In this manner the good theefe pleaded and
defended our cause, being a good Patron to the silly virgin, and to
me poore Asse. But they staied hereupon a good space, with long
deliberation, which made my heart (God wot) and spirit greatly to
quaile. Howbeit in the end they consented to his opinion, and by and
by the Maiden was unloosed of her bonds, who seeing the young man, and
hearing the name of brothels and bawdy Merchants, began to wax joyfull,
and smiled with herself. Then began I to deeme evill of the generation
of women, when as I saw the Maiden (who was appointed to be married to a
young Gentleman, and who so greatly desired the same) was now delighted
with the talke of a wicked brothel house, and other things dishonest. In
this sort the consent and manners of women depended in the judgement of
an Asse.

THE TWENTY-SIXTH CHAPTER

How all the Theeves were brought asleepe by their new companion.

Then the young man spake againe, saying, Masters, why goe wee not about
to make our prayers unto Mars, touching this selling of the Maiden, and
to seeke for other companions. But as farre as I see, here is no other
manner of beast to make sacrifice wi