HERE BEGINNETH THE BOOK OF THE CRAFT OF DYING
Forasmuch as the passage of death, of the wretchedness of the exile of this world, for uncunning[1] of dying — not only to lewd men[2] but also to religious and devout persons — seemeth wonderfully hard and perilous, and also right fearful and horrible; therefore in this present matter and treatise, that is of the Craft of Dying, is drawn and contained a short manner of exhortation, for teaching and comforting of them that be in point of death. This manner of exhortation ought subtly to be considered, noted, and understood in the sight of man's soul; for doubtless it is and may be profitable generally, to all true Christian men, to learn and have craft and knowledge to die well.
This matter and treatise containeth six parts of chapters:
The first is of commendation of death; and cunning to die well.
The second containeth the temptations of men that die.
The third containeth the interrogations that should
