University of Virginia Library

A lady once, in pleasaunt sorte,
A question did demaunde of mee,
For want as then of other sporte:
Without offence, good Sir (quod she):
May I craue thus much at your hande,
To haue a riddle rightly scand?
Whereto I soone gaue this replye:
Madame, you know full harde it is
To reade a Riddle perfectly;
The wisest men may iudge amisse.
But shew the effect of your request,
And you shall see me doo my best.