CHAP. XXV REYNARD THE FOX 239

governed by your wisdom, and there shall not
breathe that creature in any kingdom which
shall do you injury; but I will highly revenge
it. This you shall proclaim through all the
nation, and be the chief governor in the same,

for the office of high bailiff here I freely

 

bestow upon you, and [ know you may reap
great honour thereby.’

All Reynard’s friends and kindred humbly
thanked the King; but he told them it was
much short of that he intended to do for their
sakes, and advised them all to admonish him
to be careful of his faith and loyalty. This
said Dame Rukenaw, ‘ Believe it, my Lord, we
will not fail in that point, neither fear you the
contrary; for should he prove otherwise, we
would renounce him.’