94 REYNARD THE FOX CHAP. XII

to be absolved, and from Rome I intend to
cross the seas to the Holy Land, and will
never return again to my native country, till
I have done so much good, and satisfied for
my sins, that | may with honour and reputation
attend on your highness’s person.’

The King, hearing this, said, ‘Since you
stand accursed in the censures of the Church,
I may not have you about me, and therefore
I will at this time take Ayward the hare,
and some other with me to Cvekenpit, and
only command you, Reynzard, as you respect
my favour, to clear yourself of his holiness’s
curse.’

‘My Lord,’ said the fox, ‘it is the only
reason of my going to Rome; neither will I
rest night nor day till I have gotten a full
absolution.’

‘The course you take is good,’ said the
King, ‘go on and prosper in your intent and
purpose.’