High in moral virtue was his speech, and gladly would he learn and gladly teach. - Geoffrey Chaucer

What more should I say, but that the Miller would not his words forebear for any man, and told his vulgar tale in his own way. I regret that I must repeat it here and, therefore, of every refined person I pray, for the love of God, think not that I speak with evil intent, but I must relate all the stories as they are told, be they better or worse, or else be untrue to myself and my design. And, therefore, he who wishes not to read it, turn over the leaf and choose another tale. For he shall find enough, great and small, of historical matters that touch upon gentility, and also morality and holiness. Blame me not if you should choose amiss.

Well did he know the taverns in every town, and every hosteller and bar-maid, far better than he knew any leper or beggar.

The lyf so short, the craft so long to lerne.