The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer modernis'd by several hands. Publsh'd by Mr. Oggle |
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THE MERCHANT. |
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 | The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer |  |
THE MERCHANT.
With these a Merchant in a motley Coat,Well mounted too, and bearded like a Goat;
A Flander's Beaver on his Head he wore;
His Boots were neatly Buckled on before:
He prov'd with Reasons strong, and formal Face,
T'increase in Wealth was to increase in Grace;
Greedy of Gold, and popular Esteem,
He wish'd the Sea were shut to all but him.
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Knew where th' Exchange would rise, and where it fell;
In Debt to none, in Bargains strict and nice;
Thought unprompt Payment was the greatest Vice.
What he with Pains had got, with Care he'd save,
Not Charitable, for he seldom gave.
| The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer | |