Volume I Part 14 (2/2)

I may say Death giveth no warning: To think on thee it maketh my heart sick; For all unready is my book of reckoning: But, [for] twelve year and I might have abiding, My counting-book I would make so clear, That my reckoning I should not need to fear.

Wherefore, Death, I pray thee for G.o.d's mercy, Spare me, till I be provided of remedy.

DEATH.

Thee availeth not to cry, weep, and pray: But haste thee lightly, that thou wert gone this journey; And prove thy friends, if thou can; For, wit thou well, the tide abideth no man, And in the world each living creature For Adam's sin must die of nature.

EVERYMAN.

Death, if I should this pilgrimage take, And my reckoning surely make, Show me, for Saint Charity, Should I not come again shortly?

DEATH.

No, Everyman, and thou be once there, Thou mayest never more come here, Trust me verily.

EVERYMAN.

O gracious G.o.d, in the high seat celestial, Have mercy on me in this most need.

Shall I have no company from this vale terrestrial Of mine acquaince,[79] that way me to lead?

DEATH.

Yea, if any be so hardy, That would go with thee, and bear thee company: Hie thee that thou were gone to G.o.d's magnificence, Thy reckoning to give before his presence.

What, weenest thou thy life is given thee, And thy worldly goods also?

EVERYMAN.

I had ween'd so verily.

DEATH.

Nay, nay; it was but lend thee; For, as soon as thou art gone, Another awhile shall have it, and then go therefro, Even as thou hast done.

Everyman, thou art mad, thou hast thy wits five, And here on earth will not amend thy life; For suddenly I do come.

EVERYMAN.

O wretched caitiff, whither shall I flee, That I might escape this endless sorrow!

Now, gentle Death, spare me till to-morrow, That I may amend me With good advis.e.m.e.nt.

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