- The Franklin interrupts the Squire's tale, saying that he has spoken very well considering his youth. In fact, he thinks that no one in the company could match the Squire in eloquence.
- The Franklin expresses his wish that his own son be as great a man as the Squire. Instead, his son gambles and spends all his money, and would rather talk with servants than gentlemen from whom he could learn proper behavior.
- The Host interrupts this exchange to remind the Franklin that everyone must tell a tale.
- The Franklin asks the Host to excuse him for speaking a few words to the Squire, and announces his intention to tell a tale he hopes will be good enough for the Host.