Here beginneth the Franklin's Tale. In Armorica, which is called Brittany, there was a knight who loved and served a lady in the best manner he could. And he wrought many a labor, many a great emprise, ere he gained her. But at last she took such pity upon his pains, because of his worthiness and chiefest for his humble attentiveness, that privily she agreed to take him for husband and lord, in such lordship as men have over their wives. Thus they were both in quiet and peace.
Love is as free as any spirit.
Look who is most patient in love, he has the advantage over all. Men should not chide or complain at every word. Learn to endure, or else, on my life, ye shall learn it, whether ye will or no. Wrath, sickness, the stars, wine, woe, changing humors, full often cause a man to act or speak amiss. And therefore, that he might live at ease, this wise worthy knight promised forbearance toward her, and she full seriously swore to him that there never should be lack in her.