there dwelt a man in babylon of reputation great by fame he took to wife a fair woman

Susanna, she was called by name of woman fair and virtuous.

Lady, lady, why should we not of her learn us?

to live godly.

That year two churches there were made which were the elders of Babylon.

To Joachim's house was all that laid.

Who was Susanna's husband then?

Chuck him was a great rich man Lady, lady

These elders oft to his house came for this lady.

These elders came to her anon, and thus they said,

Fair dame, Godspeed.

Thy doors are past, thy maids are gone.

Consent to us and do this deed.

For we are men of no distrust Lady, lady, and yet to thee we have a lust

O fair lady, if that to us thou dost say nay, A testimonial we will bring, We will say that one with thee, nay,

How canst thou then avoid the thing?

Therefore consent, and to us turn.

Lady, lady, for we to thee in lust do burn, O fair lady.

Then did she sigh and say, Alas, the woe is me on every side.

Was ever wretch in such a case?

Shall I consent and do this deed?

Whether I do or do it not Lady, lady

It is my death right well I wot, O true lady.

Better it were for me to fall into your hands this day, guiltless,

Than that I should consent at all To this your shameful wickedness

And weeped with that whereas she stood Lady, lady

Unto the Lord she cried aloud pitifully.

These elders both likewise again Against Susanna aloud they cried Their filthy lust could not obtain Their wickedness they sought to hide

Unto her friends they then her brought, Lady, lady, and with all speed the life they sought of that lady.