Chaucer's second attempt to entertain his fellow pilgrims is his version of the French Le Livre de Melibee et de Dame Prudence. It is a longish debate between Dame Prudence and her husband Melibee who discuss topics of moral philosophy after their house has been entered by three burglars who seriously injured their daughter, Sophia. Should one avenge violence with further violence?

When the three burglars are found, Dame Prudence suggests a peaceful settlement. Her husband proposes a small fine before they are set free. Dame Prudence, however, even refutes the fine and Melibee generously forgives them, after he has rebuked them for their evil deeds. Unfortunately, we do not get to know what happened to poor Sophia.

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