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The Canterbury Tales: The Pardoner's Tale Lines 633 – 659 Summary

  • But sires, I forgot to say one thing in my tale.
  • I have relics and pardons in my pouch, each as fail-safe as can be.
  • The Pope himself gave them to me.
  • If any of you, out of devotion, wants to make an offering and receive my absolution, come forward and kneel down here, and meekly receive my pardon.
  • Or else, take a pardon on the way, a new and fresh one every mile. Keep making offerings, again and again, just to be sure.
  • It's a great honor for you to have a competent pardoner in your midst, to absolve you as you ride along, in case something bad happens.
  • Who knows, someone could fall off his horse and break his neck.
  • What a relief it is for you to have me here to absolve you when your soul passes out of your body.
  • I suggest our Host make the first offering. He needs it the most.
  • You can kiss my relics, every one, for just a penny. Go ahead, unbuckle your purse!