This Danish in fact reflected local dialects; a standard language did not yet exist. But a certain dominance of Zealandic forms is visible already in the late Middle Ages: the administrative, ecclesiastical and commercial center of Denmark lay on Zealand (Roskilde, Copenhagen), and a Zealandic chancery style (inspired by German and Latin syntax) was developing.

'Sorra a friend I have - sorra a friend, Masther Richard; and I did not spake to the priest this year or more, and I darn't go near him,' said the poor Palmerstown lass that was once so merry.

Her macrame basket hangers are so well knotted.

Teache the people to gett heuen with fastynge.