But herkneth, lordynges, in conclusioun: Youre likyng is that I shal telle a tale. Now have I dronke a draughte of corny ale, By God, I hope I shal yow telle a thyng That shal by reson been at youre likyng.

But herkneth, lordynges, in conclusioun:
Youre likyng is that I shal telle a tale.
Now have I dronke a draughte of corny ale,
By God, I hope I shal yow telle a thyng
That shal by reson been at youre likyng.

– Geoffrey Chaucer

The Canterbury Tales, The Pardoner’s Prologue. Confessing to another of the Seven Deadly Sins, gluttony, the Pardoner says he has drank a draft of strong ale as he is about to launch into his story. The fact that his tale will warn against the evil of drunkenness only enhances his reputation as the most hypocritical character in The Canterbury Tales. The irony won’t escape his listeners.

Geoffrey Chaucer Quotes