It is as true as it is marvellous.
Said this ass thus with anger.
3976-7
Had I a sword, I would slay thee.
So was this man to mischief (grief) brought.
3985-6
Quoth Balaam, "since I have mis-fared,
If thou wilt, I will turn back."
3988
Against my counsel speak thou nought.
3993-4
Shall I no word be able to forth-do (utter),
Except what God layeth on me.
4000-1 And went apart; why? but because from above, etc.