Note 37 — JANUARY AND MAY:
Reading edition
Chaucer had previously mentioned that it was the usage for newly married wives to keep their chambers till the fourth day, and he repeats the fact here:
As custom is unto these nobles all, A bride shall not eaten in the hall, Till dayes four, or three days atte least I-passed be; then let her go to the feast. The fourthe day complete from noon to noon, When that the highe masse was i-doon, In halle sit this January and May, As fresh as is the brighte summer's day.