Xxix

And sooth to say, why I left you so long, Was for to seeke adventure in strange place, Where Archimago said a felon strong To many knights did daily worke disgrace; But knight he now shall never more deface: Good cause of mine excuse; that mote ye please Well to accept, and evermore embrace My faithfull service, that by land and seas Have vowd you to defend: now then your plaint appease.